UK Rave: revelers gather to experiment without social distancing



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The UK experiment unfolded without Covid-19 restrictions. It was part of the government’s Events Research Program (ERP) and will provide scientific data to help officials plan the return of nightclubs and live events to the UK this summer.

Liverpool Director of Public Health Matt Ashton said the rave had given “a glimpse of what we think the future may hold.”

Speaking to the BBC, Ashton said it was “wonderful” to see the looks on people’s faces as they gathered in a specially equipped warehouse on Friday.

But he stressed the event was a science experiment and attendees should now revert to coronavirus restrictions. Participants who test positive for the virus should self-isolate normally.

“We have to deal with Covid always like it’s still there because it is, even though it is at low levels, so we have to be careful in our approach,” Ashton said.

Revelers dance in Liverpool on April 30 as part of a UK experience.

“And for me, that’s why it’s so important that we put the science together on this so that we can do it safely and correctly in the future.”

The health official said such pilot events were crucial for opening up the economy.

“It’s going to be part, I think, of a longer journey to understand how we live with Covid more safely in the future,” Ashton said.

Social distancing restrictions and lockdowns have hit the UK live music industry hard.

“It has not been an easy process, and it is particularly difficult as the nightlife sector has not been open for over a year,” Claire McColgan, Liverpool culture director, said in a statement from advice published before the event.

On Sunday, UK music fans can look forward to yet another live ERP event, to be held at Sefton Park in Liverpool.

The sold-out music event will take place in a “huge” marquee and once through the doors, attendees won’t have to wear face coverings or maintain social distancing, according to a statement from host Festival Republic .

“[This event is] to demonstrate our absolute commitment that we can and will open on June 21. We want to bring festival fans back to the events safely this year. We all need a summer of live music, ”Festival Republic general manager Melvin Benn said in a statement.

The BRIT Awards in London will also host a live audience on May 11.

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