Arts For Rutland group urges people to help the industry get back on its feet after the pandemic by supporting future events

A group representing the arts has called on people to help the industry get back on its feet.

Rutland has a thriving arts scene but many of its musicians and performers are still waiting to get back to work.

Live outdoor performances were allowed to resume on Saturday but indoor performances are still on hold.

Arts For Rutland spokesman Joy Everitt said: “This has been a really difficult time for all performing, visual and arts venues everywhere and of course for our own county of Rutland.

“The museum has been closed as have all local pubs and clubs, galleries, theatres, churches and schools where so much fantastic work is undertaken.”

But despite months of uncertainty, preparations are going on behind the scenes for when restrictions are lifted, and Joy is urging people to support the industry as is starts to reopen.

She said: “The arts is struggling and it is an essential part of our community and lifestyle. Let’s really start to get it moving again.”

Oakham School has continued to broadcast its lunchtime concerts online and the Rutland Open Exhibition is also available to view on the Arts For Rutland website after Rutland County Museum in Oakham was forced to close just days after the pieces went on display in March.

Entertainment businesses are also starting to reopen.

The DG Music showroom in Oakham is taking bookings for events next year and is branching out to become The Piano Café selling vinyl, turntables and music-inspired merchandise from the shop in South Street.

Company director David Graham is also one of the musicians taking part in an online event next month when Rutland harpist Harriet Flather hosts her forth Musicathon.

The event normally takes place at Oakham Castle but Covid-19 means it will be moving online for this year.

On Saturday, August 22 musicians from all over the country will come together for eight hours of continuous entertainment in aid of Dementia UK.

Harriet said: “The arts have united so many people during the coronavirus and this event will be a celebration of this.”

Another project bringing the arts to people at home is called Love from Cleethorpes.

New Perspectives has created a free six-part drama which is delivered on a series of postcards.

Recipients will read each card and piece together a relationship between two people told over a 30-year correspondence.

To receive the series through your door e-mail info@a4r.org.uk by July 27.