Due to social distancing restrictions any shows at the Princess will be capped at 230 seats but Mr Loone said they were looking to activate other spaces such as the foyer. The Earl Arts Centre is also going to be a great asset for those smaller settings, Mr Loone said. Theatre North have planned “high-impact, small scale” performances and experiences for the remainder of 2020. They include artist talks, poetry nights, fundraising events and the continuation of Princess Theatre tours. Mr Loone said they’d had a strong response from the community regarding the tours. “They’re a rare opportunity for theatre lovers, families and curious Launcestonians to explore the venue from the followspot to the foundations,” he said. The first small event will be held on August 19 at 11am and will feature local theatre luminary Stella Kent. Well-known actors Michael Edgar and Cameron Hindrum are teaming up to present Ted & Sylvia – an evening of poetry on August 28. Mr Loone said Theatre North had worked tirelessly during the shutdown to ensure the Princess Theatre was thoroughly prepared to welcome back patrons this month. “We know there’s a real thirst to come back to the theatre,” he said. Mr Loone said the Princess Theatre had undergone maintenance during the shut down but the main focus of the team had been refunds of the many tickets purchased before lockdown. “In many ways, our box office and admin team have never been busier. It was a Herculean effort. The impact of the public health crisis is leading to real financial pressure on arts organisations across the nation, and our local arts scene isn’t immune,” he said. The team has worked hard to keep people informed of the status of performances and has also refunded more than 9000 tickets. The tickets were collectively worth $620,000. Mr Loone said a community-led fundraiser was planned for the theatre in late September to help the industry back onto its feet.