Performing arts charity, NK Theatre Arts, is planning to re-open The Forum Theatre in Romiley for Performing Arts Workshops from September.
The Trustees met to discuss the detailed plan which will see numbers of classes more than doubling to ensure demand is met among current members.
All classes will adhere to the published guidelines on social distancing and will see reduced times for sessions as well as restrictions on who enters the building.
Company Manager Darren Stannage said that everyone has been desperate to try to bring sessions back for the children and young people of Stockport. He commented:
It will be getting on for 6 months since we were able to deliver any of our activities and we had around 200 children that we were working with week in, week out when lockdown occurred. We know how much it means to them to be able to meet up once more with their peers and enjoy doing what they love in a safe environment.
“We know it will be different for them, numbers are going to be capped and there will be no close group working of any kind, and there are still restrictions in place in terms of any element of performance, or indeed singing at this stage.
“A comprehensive Risk Assessment is now being put into place ready for the start of September, which will be published prior to opening and we have worked very hard to make sure we can bring our members back. We have different session times as well as one way systems and changes to specific entrances and exits to the building and we will be getting more spaces ready for classes to take place.
“Children and young people have been hit hard by such dramatic circumstances and we owe it to them to try to bring back such an enjoyable experience for them, which can help tackle any mental and physical needs too. We look forward to being able to present our changes to our members and their parents before starting our sessions this September and help to give a little bit of normality back to so many dedicated youngsters.”
The Forum Theatre will remain closed to the public and all performances are currently suspended in line with government advice. With over 40,000 local people visiting The Forum each year, which even hosted a fundraiser from Sir Ian McKellen last spring, the company remain determined to bring live theatre back to Stockport as soon as it is safe to do so.