Many artists have had to make changes to their working patterns as a result of the coronavirus lockdown. In addition to changing their working habits, some artists have had to adjust their financial situation.
As we reported earlier this month, the UK government announced an emergency package worth £2 billion to support the country's creative industries. This included funding for the National Theatre, Royal Opera House, British Museum, Tate Britain, and other cultural institutions. However, the measures were not extended to independent theatre companies, dance companies, music venues, and other small businesses.
We spoke with several performers who told us how they're adapting to the new working patterns. One dancer said she was "working from home more than ever before" because her company had lost its regular rehearsal space. Another performer said he was "doing everything remotely," as his business has closed down completely. A singer explained that he was now "working from home full time." He added that he was "feeling very lucky" to have a job at all, given the current situation.
It's not just performers who are feeling the effects of the lockdown. Many other workers are also struggling to make ends meet. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the number of people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance increased by nearly 300,000 between March and April 2020. This means that there were almost 1 million more people receiving benefits than there were in February 2019.
In addition to financial worries, some artists are worried about how the coronavirus outbreak will affect them personally. They're concerned about contracting the virus themselves, as well as spreading it to others.