Intermission: COVID-19's Effect on Theatre

Robin Brooke

What parts of the industry are you involved in?

Theatre and Voice Over (VO).

Are you currently involved in any theatrical or artistic projects?

Theatre- No, and I don’t really have interest in “Zoom Productions” I am attracted to the energy of live performances.

How has the COVID-19 epidemic personally affected your artistic opportunities?

I would say that with the theatre down, I have focused totally on my VO work. I’m a Pro VO talent and I also teach Intro and Master Classes for a large VO training company. Previously, I was traveling all over the US to teach, but since April 2020, everything has been via webinar. I can honestly say that with 100 percent focus on VO, this has been THE BEST financial year of my career.

What do you think is in store for the industry? Will it be the same post-COVID?

VO is only going stronger, and is a very stable market work-wise. Since Covid there is huge growth in many areas (audiobooks/instructional design especially).

For theatres that are still able to reopen, I think there will be a big hunger for the arts and if it’s safe for large groups- it will be strong again. As a producer, I can’t fly with small audiences.

What words of advice or solidarity do you have for other artists in the theatre industry?

Support each other as best you can.

Diversify, diversify, diversify your skill set.

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