We are planning a reopening, but the safety of our patrons, artists and staff is the key

We are making plans to reopen the Palladium on a limited basis but we are not in a rush to set an opening date.

Our plan when we reopen is to present Side Door shows, jazz, blues and comedy, in Hough Hall. We’ll sell 150 – 175 tickets and have plenty of room for social distancing in our 831-seat hall. To avoid lines at restrooms and concessions the shows will be performed without intermission.

We are talking with some of our favorite Tampa Bay-based performers for the opening series. Over the years, these players have become part of our family. Getting them back to work is a priority for us.

Safety remains our key concern. Our staff has prepared a plan that we believe assures the safety of our patrons and our artists. However, with the spike in cases this past week, we are taking a close look at our plans and dates. We hope to make some firm decisions after the July 4th holiday break. We will reach out to our patrons as soon as we are comfortable making a reopening announcement.

Just know we miss our audiences. We really want to get our local performers back to work and get our staff back to doing what they do best – putting on shows. But we also want to do it in a responsible way.

Stay tuned for more reopening news. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy a safe and sunny Fourth of July!