Martyn's Law for theatres and cinemas

Theatres and cinemas commonly hold hundreds of people in darkened auditoriums, and larger venues may fall into the enhanced tier.

Working out your number

Count seated and standing capacity across all screens or auditoriums, plus foyers, bars and staff.

What good procedures look like

Evacuation

Plan how performances or screenings are stopped and how audiences are guided out in low light.

Invacuation

Auditoriums can be protected spaces if the threat is outside. Decide when you would keep people inside.

Lockdown

Know how foyer entrances are secured and who has authority to do it during a show.

Communication

Agree how a show is stopped, who speaks, and what they say, so the message is calm and clear.

Get procedures written for your theatre or cinema

Answer questions about your layout, exits and staffing, and your pack turns them into procedures and a staff briefing for your premises.

See the packs

Does Martyn’s Law apply to your venue?

Five quick questions. About a minute. A preliminary check, not legal advice.

1. What type of premises is it?

2. Is that the main use of the building, or the part of it you control?

3. How many people could reasonably be present at the same time, at your busiest?Include staff, contractors and volunteers. Count regular busy times, not a one-off you could not expect.

people

4. How many premises?

5. Do you hold events for 800 or more people?

Choose your type of premises to see your result.

A guide only, based on the Act and Home Office guidance. Your tier depends on the full rules, including exclusions and premises within larger premises.