As COVID-19 restrictions relax, life is beginning to return to normal at Liverpool\u2019s Astor Theatre. General Manager Jean Robinson-Dexter says the arts venue was hit hard throughout the pandemic.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur revenues over the last fiscal year and part of the year before, way down, negligible in fact because we haven\u2019t either had rentals or concerts or shows,\u201d said Robinson-Dexter.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy making that bit of a shift, folks that aren\u2019t able to join us during a weekday can come downtown and do a little shopping, have a coffee and come to the gallery,\u201d Robinson-Dexter.<\/p>\n
Works by Mi\u2019kmaq 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.<\/p>\n
In addition to art and live music, the Astor is once again showing movies.<\/p>\n
Audiences can watch the Nova Scotian production \u201cDawn, Her Dad and the Tractor\u201d Thursday and Friday.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey are not obliged, but if folks are more comfortable doing that, we\u2019re very happy for them to do that,\u201d Robinson-Dexter.<\/p>\n
To learn more about upcoming events head to the Astor Theatre website<\/a> or Facebook page<\/a>.<\/p>\n