The global pandemic has changed the way we live. From shopping and dining to entertainment, there are various new measures being put in place to ensure people stay safe and healthy.
The UK has begun to reopen their entertainment industry, which has taken a knock amid the pandemic. Their latest offering is a socially distanced concert, and it may be the future of live music.
2,500 people gathered for the UK’s first socially distanced concert. Credit: Instagram / Virgin Money Unity Arena
On Tuesday, August 11, a new UK pop-up venue called the Virgin Money Unity Arena hosted concert. About 2,500 concertgoers gathered together to enjoy the live music of Sam Fender.
‘We are delighted to play a part in bringing back live music events as we start to emerge from lockdown,’ Helen Page, group brand and marketing director at Virgin Money told PA Media news agency. ‘This feels like a unique opportunity to celebrate music and all the wonderful emotions that come with experiencing it live alongside other music fans.’
Musican Sam Felder wowed the crowds. Credit: Instagram / Virgin Money Unity Arena
Social distancing measures were enforced upon arrival. Fans had to park their cars two metres apart, and were then guided to their private platforms. Food and drinks had to be pre-ordered on an app for collection or delivery, according to CNN.
The outdoor venue in Gosforth Park, Newcastle, northern England was separated into sections, with 500 raised metal platforms covering the area. Groups of no more than five assembled in each of the platforms and enjoyed the show.
First socially distanced concert over in the UK, and I like this concept. Everybody kinda gets their own VIP box seats! pic.twitter.com/3mXNfoORem
— Chad Tyson (@chadtyson) August 12, 2020
This is the first of many events for the venue. Musicians and comedians like Van Morrison, Jimmy Carr and Bill Bailey will also take to the stage later in the year.
