Government of Alberta extends province-wide COVID-19 measures

Province-wide measures brought in last month to protect the health system and limit the spread of COVID-19 are now in effect until at least January 21, 2021. 

Read the government news release.

All indoor and outdoor social gatherings – public and private – are prohibited. This includes all festivals, parades, events, concerts, exhibitions, competitions, sport and performance. Museums, galleries, libraries and theatres, as well as concert halls and auditoriums, remain closed. 

AFA is sharing information about these mandatory measures, found at www.alberta.ca/enhanced-public-health-measures.aspx, that are specifically relevant to the arts sector. Full information about Alberta’s COVID-19 response can be found at: www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx.

Restrictions on "group performance activities"

Alberta Health defines this as any organized activity consisting of two or more persons who come together, whether as part of a practice, rehearsal or performance, to sing, dance, play wind instruments and/or perform live theatre including but not limited to choirs, wind instrumental groups, dance troupes and theatre groups.

• This does not apply to an individual student and teacher setting (e.g. singing lessons).

What activities are restricted?

In-person performances for audiences are not permitted, either indoors or outside.

Virtual and drive-in performances, where the audience members stay in their vehicles, are allowed.

For performance activities, outdoor rehearsals and practices are permitted up to a maximum of 10 participants, and physical distancing and other relevant guidelines must be followed; however, indoor rehearsals or practices are not permitted. One-to-one, in-person lessons (indoors) are permitted, but virtual lessons are strongly encouraged where possible.

Do these restrictions apply to rehearsals and practices?

Rehearsals and practices taking place indoors are banned. Outdoor rehearsals and practices are permitted up to a maximum of 10 participants, and physical distancing and other relevant guidelines must be followed

Can performing arts groups continue practicing for upcoming events?

Rehearsals and practices taking place indoors are banned. Outdoor rehearsals and practices are permitted up to a maximum of 10 participants, and physical distancing and other relevant guidelines must be followed

As an alternative, you are also welcome to hold remote or virtual practices.

Are school-based performing arts groups required stop all activities?

Performances and concerts for a live audience are banned.

Band and drama classes are permitted.

Can non-school based performing arts instructors continue teaching?

Instruction may continue in a 1:1 setting or where members of the same household are in a lesson together.

Questions?

Staff are available to help. Please contact Alberta Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women by emailing artsbranch@gov.ab.ca if you have questions.