We’re calling all live arts organizations to join us, along with the Live Event Community in raising awareness for our industry which continues to remain dark.
We are asking live performance venue managers across the country to light up their buildings and marquees in red on Tuesday, September 22, 2020. Using the social media hashtag #LightUpLive and #EclaironsLesScenes, the Day of Visibility recognizes artists and live arts workers across the country who continue to be profoundly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the Canadian economy begins its rebound, the live performance sector is still observing alarmingly high rates of unemployment. Theatres and arts venues across the country have been doors closed for over five months due to social distancing restrictions and many organizations estimate they will be unable to resume semi-regular activities until 2021. There is a long road of recovery ahead of the sector and we trust that this campaign will give light and hope to the 40,000 live event workers who have lost their job and who are eager to get back to work.
The #LightUpLive red light activation takes place on the second-last Tuesday in September to recognize the Dark Monday tradition and as September typically marks the announcement for many theatre’s new artistic seasons. The Day of Visibility for the Live Event Community will run Tuesday, September 22nd, from an hour after sundown, coast to coast.
Participating venues and installations can be submitted and tracked on an interactive map on the Light Up Live website. You will need to make an account to add your listing.
Make sure to share a photo of your venue over social media using the #LightUpLive hashtag. If you’re unable to light up your building or marquee, we encourage you to share a photo of a ghost light within your venue.
