LIVE-streaming shows and open air performances have been pitched as ways to get the theatre industry up and running in south Essex again.

Actors, historians and directors have all racked their brains on ways to kick the theatre industry back into life, after it was announced they will remain closed until further notice on Tuesday.

Natasha Stone, an actress from Southend, feels it’s ludicrous theatres haven’t been given the go-ahead, while others have suggested theatres host open air performances in parks.

She said: “This is such a scary time for our industry, which is why it’s so ludicrous the sort of places which have been allowed to open when theatres can’t, like pubs.

“So many are out of work and people have lost thousands- actors that have paid £30,000 on studies and then can’t even do their jobs. I know people who have even lost houses and those who have been furloughed from their second jobs and have no income to fall back on. It’s terrifying.”

The 27-year-old continued: “There is a real threat of local theatres going under- the government has to do something in the next couple of months or we will see them shut down.

“Anyone who wants to keep them open can also do their bit, whether that’s donating or pushing for help.

“Taking things outside or even live streaming in the mean time is a great idea- you don’t need a theatre to put on a performance.”

Historian Vin Harrop suggested Basildon’s Towngate Theatre could use surrounding parks to put on shows and performances.

He said: “I think the government should provide some sort of support to theatres to help them get back on their feet, but it would be such a challenge to do this nationally when there are no audiences.

“I don’t see them opening until Christmas time at least, so why not do something to help themselves in the mean time? There’s a lovely open space in Gloucester Park where they could put on an open air performance to entertain everyone.

“You could keep people at a distance that way and support local actors and actresses who are out of work all in one.

“Lets take theatre to the people.”

Castle Point Councillor Charles Mumford, former director at the Cliffs Pavilion in Southend, added: “I know myself from working at the Cliffs how integral they are to the local economy, so any help from the government through the next six or seven months would be brilliant.”