Meaning: The quote "Theatre is about people, not buildings" by Edward Hall Lawyer speaks to the essence of theater as a human experience rather than a physical space. In the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic, this quote takes on added significance as theaters around the world have faced closures and restrictions, leading to a profound impact on the individuals who work within them.

At its core, theater is a collaborative art form that relies on the talents and creativity of a diverse group of people. Actors, directors, producers, set designers, costume designers, lighting technicians, stage managers, and many others come together to create the magic of live performance. The quote emphasizes that the heart of theater lies in the human connections and interactions that take place within it, rather than the physical structures that house these activities.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant challenges to the theater industry, with widespread closures and restrictions affecting both large-scale productions and small community theaters. The impact of these closures extends beyond the buildings themselves and reaches into the lives and livelihoods of the people who make theater possible. Wardrobe and costume designers, for example, have found themselves with limited opportunities to showcase their talents, as productions have been canceled or postponed. Similarly, lighting technicians and other technical staff have faced uncertainty and financial strain due to the lack of work.

The quote also points to the intangible but essential elements of theater that cannot be confined to a physical space. The human connections, creativity, and artistry that are central to the theater experience are not bound by the walls of a building. Even in the absence of traditional theater spaces, the spirit of theater lives on in the dedication and resilience of the people who bring it to life.

Despite the challenges, the theater community has shown remarkable adaptability and resilience. Many theaters have explored virtual performance options, live streaming, and outdoor performances to bring their art to audiences in new ways. This adaptability has allowed theater professionals to continue showcasing their talents and creativity, albeit in different formats.

As the world begins to emerge from the pandemic, the quote serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of human connection and creativity in the theater. It highlights the resilience of the theater community and the enduring spirit of collaboration and artistry that transcends physical spaces. The pandemic has brought into focus the vulnerability of the theater industry, but it has also reinforced the timeless truth that theater is ultimately about the people who bring it to life.

In conclusion, Edward Hall Lawyer's quote "Theatre is about people, not buildings" encapsulates the fundamental essence of theater as a human endeavor that transcends physical spaces. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the theater industry has underscored the truth of this statement, as it has brought to light the challenges faced by the individuals who make theater possible. However, the resilience and adaptability of the theater community have demonstrated that the spirit of theater lives on, even in the absence of traditional performance spaces. As the industry looks towards the future, this quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring importance of human connection and creativity in the world of theater.