This highly anticipated re-emergence of the performing arts industry has already started in venues abroad. And as the Circuit Performing Arts Theater (CPAT) prepares itself for the new normal, the recent survey provides helpful insights regarding the neighboring communities’ outlook. This not only substantiated our hopeful yearnings but also gave a clear indication of what to expect once the curtains re-open.

Notable key findings

Around 86% of those who answered the online survey came from the 25-55-year-old bracket. Sixty percent are female, and more than half its respondents from the south of Makati. A significant bulk of the survey population agreed that returning comfortably to a cultural or theatrical venue will only be possible on two conditions. When the vaccine is available, and the majority have been vaccinated.

Among options presented, respondents gravitated towards several specific safety precautions that would help ease their fears when going to venues. First, wearing masks inside the building and the auditorium. Second, social distancing measures. Third, a limit on the number of location guests. And finally, the knowledge that they (the respondents) and their fellow guests are all vaccinated.

Nearly 50% of the respondents chose film screenings as the first show or event they are most likely to attend first, assuming it is already deemed safe. Local theater productions (15%) and festivals (9%) rank a distant second and third. Among behaviors often exhibited in these kinds of events and locations, one change that respondents agreed on is a preference towards online purchase of tickets.

Further forward

Getting more comfortable with indoor venues and re-immersing yourself to these kinds of experiences will take a lot of assurance. And this will most likely come from respected institutions and certifications that will eventually be required from such locations. While much of the hard work will come from these theaters themselves, newfound discipline and respect for established protocols will also determine the effectiveness of these well-intentioned practices.

The Circuit Performing Arts Theater has already started implementing initiatives to promote health safety and security measures before, during, and after scheduled performances. As opening draws near, protocols are being put in place, aligned with government-enforced rules and regulations.

The ever-changing landscape of theater and the performing arts is slowly but surely adjusting its beloved traditions to suit its community’s zeitgeist. And while the implementation of customer-safety strategies will take time to be executed perfectly, any patron of the arts knows that nothing worth the wait comes easy. Extraordinary, after all, is a rewarding magical journey.

For more information, contact inquire.cpat@ayalaland.com.ph or call via (+63917) 804.9336.