Yahoo News Brit Awards to have live audience as part of Covid events research
The Brit Awards organisers have announced that the upcoming 2021 ceremony will have a live audience of 4,000 people as part of the government’s live events pilot scheme.
Those in the audience at the ceremony hosted by Jack Whitehall at the O2 Arena next month won't have to social distance or be required to wear face coverings once in their seats.
However, they will need to provide proof of a negative lateral flow test to gain entry and will be required to provide details to NHS Test and Trace and follow Government guidance while travelling.
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It's part of the government's Events Research Programme which looks into how live events may function after the pandemic.
Other events that are included in the government's research include The World Snooker Championships at the Sheffield Crucible and an outdoor gig at Sefton Park, hosted by Festival Republic.
Watch: Brit Awards will have live audience of 4,000
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “The Brits are always a big night in the music calendar, but this year’s awards will be particularly special.
“They will reunite live audiences with the best of British talent for the first time in a year, while providing a vital opportunity to see how we can get large crowds back safely as soon as possible.
“Music connected us when we were separated by this pandemic and now it’s going to help bring us back together again.”
The majority of tickets (2,500) will be given to key workers based in London, who can apply for the free tickets on the Brit Awards website from midday Thursday.
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Meanwhile, 1,500 seats are allocated to nominated artists and their teams as well as sponsors and other members of the music industry.
Live performances will be given at the event held on 11 May by artists including Dua Lipa and Griff.
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