Wales relaxes capacity limits at music venues

Capacity rules at venues in Wales have eased as the country continues to reopen.

From today, June 21, groups of six people from six households can now visit comedy and music venues, matching pubs and restaurants in the country. Rules on wedding receptions as well as wakes have also been changed, meaning that venues can host as many people as they like, as long as they do so safely.

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Capacity rules will also be based on size instead of having a set capacity of 30 people - while venues must follow strict rules and ensure proper ventilation. Social distancing rules are still in place.

While many have welcomed the changes, a number of artists are worried about the future of the live music industry.

Mark Davyd, Chief Executive of the Music Venue Trust, said that these changes are not “economically viable”.

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"Venues will be doing it to reconnect with customers. It is good news everything is moving forward. Not as fast as we would like but we appreciate everything Mark Drakeford has done. But how many venues will be able to open in Wales is a slightly different question, because they still have to do social distancing," he added.

While rapper Eggsy of Goldie Lookin Chain, expressed worry that local music will not see a revival until next year.

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"Our gigs have been pushed back and back, will venues be able to make a profit with reduced crowds? That will affect who they are booking,” he said.

"I don't think live music will be back on for a long time, next year at the earliest. I hope I am wrong, but it is still looking crazy."

[via: BBC]

Tope Olufemi is Mixmag's Digital Intern, follow them on Twitter