A THEATRE boss has said she is in no rush open after Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave the go-ahead to delayed plans to resume socially-distanced indoor performances.

The Government had previously given the green light for performance spaces to welcome back audiences last month, however the move was delayed amid a rise in Covid-19 cases in certain areas.

Indoor performances can now take place from today, except in locations such as Manchester where additional restrictions have already been imposed.

The move was announced alongside plans to relax rules on businesses including bowling alleys, skating rinks, casinos, beauty salons and tattoo studios. Wedding receptions for up to 30 guests are also allowed.

Jakki Moore of Beggars Theatre in Millom, said: “I believe it was announced at night and then the next morning I woke up to the news of it and I thought it was a bit last minute.

“So I haven’t got anything planned to go ahead after last time it was delayed at the last minute. Our first show is going to be in September, I may try and get something in before then but possibly not.

“It was a bit confusing really as they delayed the easing, they are shutting down some regions, advising to avoid going to certain countries.

“I don’t think it is filling the public with confidence to be honest.

“I am not going to rush to start up again for the sake of it.

“I am not council backed, I am on my own with this.

“Of course I got the £10,000 grant but that doesn’t go as far as you would think as I had tickets booked a year in advance that I have to refund.

“Announcing something like this on you last minute, you are not going to be putting anything on, people need to rehearse and practise.

“It is a positive thing don’t get me wrong but I am going ahead with caution. People are buying tickets so it is a good thing.”

The next shows scheduled to take place are Spitfire Solo by Nicholas Collett on September 18 at 7.30pm followed by Glory Days the next night.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: "The nation's hard work to keep the virus under control means we can now make further careful progress on recovery with allowing audiences back for indoor performances, fans back at sports events and the reopening of more Covid-19 secure leisure businesses.

"We must all continue to stay alert but today's welcome news means these organisations can finally get going safely, and we can enjoy more of the things we love as a nation.

"I have no doubt that they will work incredibly hard to keep their fans, patrons and customers safe."

The move sees the Government advance to stage four of their plan for the phased return of live shows, which allows for performances both indoors and outdoors with a limited capacity audience.

Stage five, which is the final step of the plan, would see performances allowed both indoors and outdoors with fuller crowds.

The move follows a "successful series of pilots", according to a statement from Downing Street.

One of the pilot performances saw singer Beverley Knight perform at the London Palladium theatre in front of a sold-out, socially-distanced audience.