Italian broadcaster RAI and Italian media have confirmed that the 71st edition of Sanremo will go ahead, but without an audience. All of the shows however, will be broadcast between the 2nd-6th March, as originally planned.
The artistic director for Sanremo, Amadeus, along with the Italian broadcaster, have had lots of debates and discussions over the past few days on whether or not to allow an audience at this years festival.
However, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and in line with restrictions currently in place in Italy, it has been agreed that having no audience will be in the best interests of everyone, and will hopefully reduce the risk of the virus spreading. It has also been agreed with the Mayor of Sanremo that no events in conjunction with the festival will go ahead this year.
The Italian broadcaster and the organisers of the festival have released a plan for what Sanremo 2021 will look like without an audience, backed by a scientific technical committee and a biological risk assessment.
- Everybody on site must be temperature checked.
- All of the 26 competing acts must come to the Artison Theatre already dressed for their performance.
- A minimum of 1.5 metres social distancing must be adhered to by the hosts, participants and crew.
- All of the 26 participants and guests will perform alone on stage.
- The acts are limited to two people in their entourage.
The backstage area for the artists and hosts has been expanded, to ensure that social distancing can be adhered to as best as possible. There will also be PPE and cleaning supplies provided for everyone to use.
What do you think Sanremo will be like without an audience? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
