ENTERTAINMENT venues in York are “giddy” as they prepare to reopen next week - in line with the Government’s Covid road map.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last week that the country’s lockdown restrictions will be eased further from Monday (May 17), which will see the reopening of entertainment venues such as theatres and cinemas.

Tom Bird, chief executive at York Theatre Royal, said: “Despite all our hard work over the closure period - from making PPE to The Travelling Pantomime - our lifeblood is live performance in this beautiful building.

“We’re giddy with excitement at re-opening, and have a phenomenal season and summer lined up.”

The Theatre Royal will reopen on Monday - with a new ‘Love Bites’ show.

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre (JRT) will reopen on Friday, May 21, with the ‘Strictly Cabaret’ show by the Bev Jones Musical Company.

Dan Shrimpton, chair of the JRT trustees, said the theatre has worked hard to ensure it is Covid-safe.

“We’ve missed the buzz of putting on a show and can’t wait for opening night,” he added.

As well as theatres in York, cinemas are also preparing to reopen.

The Cineworld in the city will reopen from Wednesday, May 19. A spokesperson said: “We’re delighted that customers in York will again be able to enjoy the best place to watch a movie.”

The City Screen in Coney Street will reopen on the same date - with social distancing measures in place and staggered starting times.

The Vue cinema in Rawcliffe will reopen on Monday - showing new films including Peter Rabbit 2 and Mortal Kombat.

The Everyman cinema in Blossom Street will also reopen on Monday - and will be showing Oscar winner Nomadland.