COVID-19 stealing kids' Christmas concerts in Corner Brook, but glimmer of holiday spirit remains
Parents and grandparents can't pile into the Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre this December to snap a picture of their little ones on stage this Christmas, but as COVID-19 rules cancel the annual tradition, some artists — both big and small — are finding a workaround.
"We will miss it, because the little ones are just so special," said manager Krista Hansen-Robitschek.
"Even up to Grade 6 ... You see the same children year after year, and you see them grow."
During a regular year, the stage would be blocked with school concerts during weekdays in November and December, with other Christmas concerts taking up every weekend.
But she says some local entertainers have found ways to pull off a holiday show on the local stage, following the health guidelines.
Spaced apart
"We will put three seats between you and the next group of people. And every second row is blocked off," she said.
"You will be required to wear a mask when you enter the theatre. All staff and patrons, when moving through the theatre, have a mask on. And when you are seated you can take your mask off and watch the show."
'We just want to make a safe and enjoyable atmosphere' - Krista Hansen-Robitschek
Hansen-Robitschek says groups must book their seats within their bubble. There is no intermission, and shows are around an hour long, with the theatre aiming to keep capacity at 100, including performers.
WATCH | Colleen Connors reports on a workaround in Corner Brook to replace some school Christmas concerts:
"We just want to make a safe and enjoyable atmosphere," she said.
Most entertainers are booking multiple nights to accommodate the new, limited seating situation.
COVID workaround
One group that offers private music lessons in Corner Brook discovered a COVID-19 workaround, so all their young students can take part in their upcoming Christmas show on Dec. 18.
Graham Academy's youngest performers, who are four and five years old, will record their song and air it during the concert.
"It gives the children an opportunity to perform and be out there," said instructor Ian Locke. "Christmas is such a performing highlight for many young students."
Students practice their Christmas songs and plays wearing masks, standing six feet apart.
After months of online performances, Locke is just delighted to return to the stage, even though it's on a smaller, safer scale.
"We are so happy to be back, because we haven't been there since last Christmas," he said.
