West End theaters in London and elsewhere will continue with performances as scheduled on Thursday, but many will pay tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth, according to the Society of London Theater and UK Theatre, two groups representing the industry.
“Many theaters across the country will dim their lights tonight and observe a minute of silence, play the national anthem and open condolence registers ahead of the performance as a sign of their respect,” SOLT said in a statement.
Theater performances will continue during the ‘official period of mourning’, according to guidelines from the country’s Ministry of Digital, Culture, Media and Sports. However, a SOLT and UK Theater spokesperson said he expected some theaters to close on the day of the funeral, which is expected to take place 10 days after the monarch’s death.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The theater industry is grateful for all the support and patronage Her Majesty has shown throughout her life. We wish to express our deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this time of national mourning,” Stephanie Sirr MBE and Jon Gilchrist, joint chairmen of UK Theatre, and Eleanor Lloyd, chairman of Society of London Theatre, said in a statement.
Several currently running West End shows joined in the condolences.