As COVID-19 restrictions relax, life is beginning to return to normal at Liverpool’s Astor Theatre. General Manager Jean Robinson-Dexter says the arts venue was hit hard throughout the pandemic.

“Our revenues over the last fiscal year and part of the year before, way down, negligible in fact because we haven’t either had rentals or concerts or shows,” said Robinson-Dexter.

She says financial support from all levels of government kept the theatre afloat during the pandemic. Some changes are coming as the venue ramps up their offerings.

Robinson-Dexter says the Astor is adjusting their box office schedule to open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, to include the weekend.

“By making that bit of a shift, folks that aren’t able to join us during a weekday can come downtown and do a little shopping, have a coffee and come to the gallery,” Robinson-Dexter.

Works by Mi’kmaq artist Alan Syliboy will be on display in March after Syliboy and his band the Thundermakers with special guest Morgan Toney perform in the theatre Saturday.

In addition to art and live music, the Astor is once again showing movies.

Audiences can watch the Nova Scotian production “Dawn, Her Dad and the Tractor” Thursday and Friday.

Robinson-Dexter understands some patrons may feel uneasy about mask requirements being lifted on March 21 but says people are still welcome to wear masks in the Astor.

“They are not obliged, but if folks are more comfortable doing that, we’re very happy for them to do that,” Robinson-Dexter.

To learn more about upcoming events head to the Astor Theatre website or Facebook page.

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