Curtains Up is a charitable campaign that aims to provide a vital lifeline to theatres and performers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

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The global pandemic is having a catastrophic impact on the arts. In March 2020, the industry suffered an unprecedented shutdown of productions and the overnight loss of its major revenue streams. 

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This immediate closure of venues left theatres, performers, creatives and supporting staff in a position of uncertainty and financial hardship.

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Curtains Up is a charitable campaign that aims to provide a vital lifeline to those struggling within the industry. The campaign is raising money for strategic causes within the arts, with the aim of speeding up recovery and protecting venues from permanent closure. 

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There are around 40 historic, 1,000-seat theatres in central London alone. Even with no performances taking place, each one has weekly running costs of approximately £30,000. When multiplied nationally, to include much-loved and iconic venues in all regions, it becomes clear that the industry is facing a serious threat to its future. 

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With only limited income from ticket sales, the survival of the UK’s world-famous performing arts industry depends on charitable campaigns like Curtains Up.