No DJs, no cabaret, table service, 1m plus social distancing, but at least they’re opening. That’s the latest news about the opening of LGBTQ+ bars across the country.
Venues will have limited capacity and people will have to be seated at a table. They must be seated inside or outside. They will then get table service, which is also compulsory. Payment may be contactless (not compulsory), and some venues will let you order drinks via an app. Some venues may request that you book in advance, such as Ku Bar. You may even be asked for a deposit by some, as capacity is limited and ´no shows´ are costly for the venue. Ku bar will be asking for a deposit. Others, such as The RVT will not be taking advance bookings, so you’ll be able to just rock up. All venues will need to be Covid-19 compliant, no exceptions.
If you think that you can meet up with a group of friends for a drink, consider this, you can only meet up with one other household at a time. So if you have two friends from different households, take turns in going out with them.
You may be asked for your name, especially if you are booking. You can then be traced if necessary if you may have come in to contact with Covid in the venue, but according to the Guardian there will be no checks of ID or checks to see if you are conforming to the two household requirement.
Jeremy Joseph G-A-Y (@JeremyJoseph) Tweeted:
¨Stressing about re-opening
Guidelines inc. NO Entertainment, music at volume to allow normal conversation & not at level where customers raise voices ….¨
Nightclubs will not be opening. QX has yet to determine which of certain venues are actually classed as nightclubs rather than bars. For many it’s difficult to work out, but doubtless there is a criteria in place.
The regulations around re-opening will be a huge disappointment for the many artists and DJs (venues can still have quiet music, just not live DJs) that have played such an important part in entertaining us all. This may have disastrous consequences for many, who are looking at an extended period with out any income. QX will continue to list online events so that they at least stand a chance of getting some financial support from the many friends they have entertained over the years.
Some people will think that it is too early to open, and some will be only too eager to go for a drink in their local LGBTQ+ bar. As The Duch (The George and Dragon) put it,
¨Some may think this is too early! We personally think itâs a choice. We will try to make your experience as safe and normal as possible. Look forward to welcoming all our G&D family back, when youâre ready, from the 4th of July.
