Omicron: Music venues report ‘catastrophic’ audience declines

LONDON – Fears about the Omicron variant and a desire to stay safe before Christmas have led to a sharp decline in bookings and attendances at many entertainment venues, industry figures have said on Wednesday. The Music Venue Trust said audiences dropped by 23% in the past week, which is “catastrophic” for its members. Lower than expected cinema takings last weekend were also blamed on Omicron. Meanwhile, from Wednesday, some English venues require visitors to show a Covid pass, as well as wearing face masks. On Sunday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned of a “tidal wave” of infections – and anyone who tests positive must self-isolate for 10 full days, which would now include Christmas Day.