The Court Theatre has welcomed 45 new ushers into its now 335-strong volunteer team this year. ‘Strong’ is the operative word to describe them as Covid-19 has caused months of upheaval in the schedule of shows – and they have shown enormous strength, flexibility and understanding. They deserve a huge round of applause.
Rachel Vavasour, The Court’s Customer Experience Manager, is very thankful for their patience and passion. “With the year we have had I am humbled by the support and kindness of the Chief Ushers and their teams. They are such a pleasure to work with.”
The Friends’ Usher Convenor Allanah James, who works closely with Rachel, agrees. “Our ushers are absolute troopers. They are one of the reasons The Court is the most outstanding professional theatre in the country.”
Covid-19 has created much uncertainty and The Court takes its duty of care for all its actors, creatives, staff, volunteers and contractors very seriously. The Court volunteer ushers, particularly, have unavoidable contact with members of the public who may or may not be vaccinated, so the Court needs to do all it can to ensure everyone’s safety.
Under the Covid-19 Public Health response (vaccinations) order 2021, which came into force on 25th October, The Court Theatre requires all its staff, volunteers and contractors to be fully vaccinated.
“This means anyone who has not been fully vaccinated may not usher – until they are,” says Allanah. “We also realise there are some who, while fully vaccinated, would prefer not to usher until restrictions have been lifted and that’s entirely understandable.”
“Almost all our Ushers are fully vaccinated," Rachel says, "and I know they are looking forward to being back in The Shed and supporting The Court's big summer show, Little Shop of Horrors.