We take the safety of our audiences, staff and volunteers seriously and we want you to have confidence when coming to a Polka show.
We have been ‘See It Safely’ approved
Date Published: 02 December 2021
We have been granted the use of Society Of London Theatre & UK Theatre’s ‘See It Safely‘ mark. The mark certifies that we are complying with the latest Government and industry COVID-19 guidelines, to ensure the safety of our staff and audiences.
As the Christmas season approaches, it is vital that we ensure our theatres continue to be safe environments to visit and work in.
At such a crucial time of year for the long-term health and financial security of our sector, theatres need to be able to remain open to full houses over the festive period.
In light of the latest UK Government advice, we ask theatregoers to play their part in taking responsibility for their own and others’ safety by ages 12+ wearing face coverings throughout our buildings unless exempt (or whilst actively eating and drinking). We also ask that audiences respect our Visitors Services team, who are working tirelessly to ensure that theatres are a welcoming place for all.
Rigorous testing regimes and backstage protocols continue to be in place for theatre staff and performers, to allow the show to go on and to preserve the livelihood of our workforce after such a challenging two years.
See it Safely measures include enhanced cleaning, contactless ticketing and security checks, face coverings and the ability to exchange tickets if unable to attend due to Covid. In line with the Health Secretary’s latest recommendations, audience members are also encouraged to take a rapid lateral flow test before attending a performance.
You can find out more about the measures we have in place ready for your visit, and what you will need to know beforehand here:
What will happen during my visit?
Please have all your e-tickets downloaded on your phone or printed out, for each member of your party. For group or school bookings, please speak to Box Office about your tickets on arrival.
We ask all audience members over the age of 12 to wear a mask whilst in the building, unless exempt. This includes during the performance, except when eating or drinking, to help keep our team and company members safe.
In line with the Health Secretary’s latest recommendations, audience members and all visitors to our venue are also encouraged to take a rapid lateral flow test before arriving.
All staff members, unless exempt, will be wearing face masks and are required to take at least two lateral flow tests weekly.
There will be hand sanitiser stations situated at numerous points in our venue.
Will audiences be socially distanced?
The below performances are running at a significantly reduced audience capacity for those that are vulnerable or would prefer to maintain a greater distance from other groups.
Cinderella: the AWESOME Truth!
Sun 12 Dec 11am
Fri 7 Jan 4.30pm
Sat 29 Jan 2.30pm
The Night Before Christmas
Sat 15 Jan 10am
What should I do if I feel unwell?
Please do not visit Polka if you or anyone in your party feels unwell. If you are unable to attend a performance due to illness, we can offer an exchange or refund. If you develop symptoms please contact our Box Office on 020 020 8543 4888 or by emailing [email protected] and we will do our best to provide you with an exchange where possible.
What cleaning measures are in place?
Regular cleaning of public areas and frequent touch points is taking place with an emphasis on our Café,
Y C Chan Play Den, Toilets and auditoriums.
All staff and companies are being vigilant with frequent hand washing and sanitising.
What happens if my performance is cancelled?
If a show is cancelled, our Box Office team will be in touch and you will be offered the ability to exchange your tickets to another performance date or a refund.