The union Equity has launched a campaign to increase live entertainment in public houses: pubs around the UK are being urged to host live entertainment – including theatre shows – as part of the new campaign, Live Entertainment Works!
The campaign for more live entertainment is aimed at highlighting changes to licensing laws introduced in 2012, which make it easier for pubs and small venues to host live entertainment, such as music and theatre performances. A number of venues in and around London already host this type of entertainment, however the campaign looks to roll this out across the whole of the UK.
Under the Live Music Act, performances of plays and dance for audiences up to 500 are permitted without a licence. Live music events for audiences of 200 or lessdo not need a licence either, providing the event does not take place before 8am and after 11pm, and if music is unamplified, there is no audience restriction.
According to Equity, live entertainment is likely to attract more customers for a venue and increase profits, expanding the reach of quality entertainment where there may not already be the opportunity for this. For performers, performing in other, alternative venues means more opportunities to stage work and be seen by audiences. It is seemingly a win-win situation for members. Pubs will get more trade through people enjoying the entertainment, the community benefits by joining in a shared activity and Equity members can perform.
According to research conducted by the Musicians’ Union in 2012, 24% of pubs reported an increase in taking of between 25% and 50% on nights they featured live entertainment, with 71% seeing an increase of between 10% and 25%. On average, pubs without music were found to be three times more likely to close.