CLEARWATER, Fla. — It still may be many months before we see shows in packed theaters and arenas, but in the meantime, some actors are taking the theater outdoors.
“This is a blessing, to say the least, to have a gig like this in the outdoors and to do it safely," said actor Nick Anatasia.
Anastasia is one of the actors performing in "The Office, an Outdoor Murder Mystery Parody."
It starts outside the Capitol Theater and turns into a walking tour where you experience the show along the way.
“We are keeping complete social distance between all of the actors and the audience as well," said Anastasia.
The Straz Center has had some small shows inside and outdoors on its Riverwalk Stage. Amalie Arena has had a couple of non-sports events with limited capacity.
And Ruth Eckerd Hall started with cabaret-style shows and now has its big hall in use at 50% capacity.
Vice President of Entertainment Bobby Rossi books the concerts there.
“We are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. The doors cracking. We’ve had a tremendous week with bookings. The industry is coming alive," said Rossi.
Rossi says bigger shows will start coming in late summer and fall.
When more people are allowed in the seats, more acts will start touring again.
“Artists that have been off the year are asking us to save them a date at REH or the Capitol Theater, so it’s been a very promising week," said Rossi.
During the last year, venues have had to adjust. Whether it’s virtual concerts or stage productions going off the stage.
But as the saying goes, the show must go on.
“For now, it’s great to be here in beautiful Clearwater outdoors and doing a show that we love," said Anastasia.
For information on "The Office, an Outdoor Murder Mystery Parody" go to: https://www.rutheckerdhall.com/event/office-murder-mystery
