Despite the fact that the camouflage mandates are not working now, and the requirements for the crown pass have been abolished, the stage industry of the northern Netherlands is still struggling with low bookings and low attendance. “Occupancy in our performances is about 65 percent of the pre-crown crisis level,” said Natalie Straatman, director of Megpel’s Ogtherop Theater, RTV Drenthe. “Even big names don’t get the audience we’re used to from the past. Of course, this has financial consequences for us. “
A small number of spectators came to the stages and shows in almost all the cities and towns of Drenthe – from small art centers to large cultural institutions – but with the same loss of much-needed income. Theaters are reluctant to return to performances in Assen, Kuvorden and Rodin, Ms Straatman said, and she feels why the seats remain empty. “People say they want to come, but there are many other things to take care of in the first place. Some of the theatergoers are also a little afraid of the crown. People, of course, are still infected. So we really need to do more to restore the audience’s trust, “she said.
Meanwhile, the Meppel Theater has developed a plan to increase audience attendance. Theater lovers can now become “friends of Agterop” for free for one year. This gives them some nice privileges, Ms Straatman says. “They receive theatrical programs at home and have the right to buy tickets early. This is an advantage when popular shows go. They also enjoy discounts on many performances. ”
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