Moray Playhouse in Elgin to reopen after more than six months closed due to lockdown
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MORAY Playhouse is set to reopen tomorrow after more than six months closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The reopening has been months in the making and there will be a host of new restrictions in place when the doors do open over the weekend.
Restrictions include a one-way system, the requirement for cinema go-ers to wear a face covering and to remain socially distant from each other. Customers are asked to book online and pay with a contactless card where possible.
The staff themselves will also be getting used to new precautions. There will be a gap between films to allow staff to increase cleaning throughout the cinema.
Company secretary Gavin Mackenzie, who has been in charge of the reopening preparations, said: "We are looking forward to reopening. It's been a long time and we are excited to have people in again.
"A lot of adjustments have been made and a lot of work has gone in to get the cinema back operating.
"Along with the coronavirus pandemic, the other big challenge has been the films being held back by Hollywood. Film releases have been delayed but that seems to be improving.
"There are some good films to see this weekend and we are operating a full screening. During the week we might run fewer films and we hope to operating at full speed again for the October holidays."
Mr Mackenzie explained exactly what the coronavirus precautions inside the cinema will be and how they will work.
"It's important people know what to expect when they come in," he said. "A lot of adjustments have been made.
"Face coverings will be required, except when eating and drinking, and we have a new system for booking seats which ensures two-metre distancing.
"There will be a one-way system and we have allowed for extra time between screenings for cleaning. All of our staff have been trained and will be phased back in to work.
"We are encouraging people to book online and pay using contactless and have introduced contactless ticketing.
"This is new for all of us and changes will take time to get used to. If in doubt, please look at the website for guidance before coming."
The first film on tomorrow (Friday) is Parasite at 3.30pm, with Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back on at 4.30pm.
The full listing can be found on the playhouse's website at caledoniancinemas.co.uk/MorayPlayhouse.dll/Home .
