Italian Theaters Reopen Under Phase 3 Rules

On June 15, Italian cinemas and theaters resumed operations under Phase 3 guidelines from the DPCM issued on June 12, which will remain in effect until July 14. These venues are required to implement pre-assigned seating that maintains a distance of at least one meter, with a maximum of 1,000 attendees allowed outdoors and 200 indoors. Masks must be worn while moving, though temperature screenings are optional. Guidelines for opera, theater, and dance specify spacing between orchestra members and hygiene protocols. Theaters are tasked with reorganizing their layouts and hiring more staff, leading to increased expenses. While some venues, such as Teatro Sperimentale di Pesaro and Teatro Menotti, have reopened, others like Teatro Nazionale and La Scala have postponed their openings until September-October. Festivals are adjusting, with some shifting online or to outdoor public spaces. The DPCM also permits theaters to serve as rehearsal venues.