After careful consultation with all of our performers and crew, we have decided on the following course of action for the 2022 MCA first round heats. Please be aware the current situation is fast-moving and should the situation change we also have contingency plans in place for online shows.

The first round heats will take place as live shows at the Phoenix but with a hugely reduced capacity of 40 tickets (as opposed to 120). Strict entrance regulations to protect our performers, audience and crew whereby all attendees need to be at least double vaccinated PLUS be able to show a negative rapid lateral flow test which has been done on the same day as the show. The proof of vaccination and negative LTF result needs to be shown upon entry using the NHS Covid app. Any customers who cannot fulfil these criteria can of course get a refund. Once the situation has hopefully eased in the coming months we may be able to adapt these rules.

Any acts who cannot or would prefer not to attend can send us a video of their 6 minute set which will performed on the Phoenix projector. Audience members must wear masks when arriving and also when moving around the venue.

Fingers crossed we will be able to do these live shows and with extra caution (and the option to stay away and perform remotely if preferred) we can still put on a great show with extra safety precautions.

Thanks all and we can’t wait to show off the talent of 2022!

Ed, Tamara, Dave and Charlie xxx