#masthead-section-label, #masthead-bar-one { display: none }The Coronavirus OutbreakliveLatest UpdatesMaps and CasesThe Latest Vaccine InformationU.S. Deaths Surpass 300,000F.A.Q.AdvertisementContinue reading the main storySupported byContinue reading the main storyDays After Reopening, London Theaters Must ShutThe musical “Six” and a concert version of “Les Miserables” are among the shows that will close because of rising coronavirus cases in the city.Pedestrians walk past the Lyric Theatre before the performance of the musical “Six” in London on Dec. 5.Credit…Suzanne Plunkett for The New York TimesDec. 14, 2020LONDON — On Dec. 5, “Six” — the hit show about the wives of Henry VIII — staged a triumphant comeback when it became the first musical to be staged in London’s West End since the coronavirus pandemic began in March.Now, just nine days later, that comeback has been brought to a sharp halt.Matt Hancock, Britain’s health secretary, announced on Monday that the government was tightening restrictions in London, as well as other parts of southern England, because of a “very sharp, exponential rise” in coronavirus cases. The new restrictions, which include a ban on theatrical performances and the closure of other indoor cultural institutions, like museums, would take effect Wednesday, he added. Pubs and restaurants would also close, though they could still offer takeout.“For businesses affected, it will be a significant blow, but this action is absolutely essential,” Hancock said, addressing Britain’s Parliament.Many theaters in London have been closed since the beginning of the pandemic, in March, though some smaller shows returned in the summer, with reduced audiences and socially distanced performers.In November, some major productions, including “Six,” were slated to return, but the British government announced a national lockdown that scrapped their plans.That lockdown lifted on Dec. 2 and England moved to a tiered system of restrictions, with differing rules around the country, including for cultural events.The Coronavirus Outbreak More
