Cautious welcome from industry as stage is set for live music return 23rd February 2021 The UK government’s pledge to reopen ‘concert halls’ from May 17, albeit with social distancing, as part of the third stage of national unlocking, prior to more widespread event freedom from June 21, has been given a cautious welcome by live events and touring leaders. Yesterday’s announcement from Prime Minister Boris Johnson stated that live music and concert halls could open by May 17, with all social distancing measures lifting on June 21. It was also noted that these are earliest possible dates and that they are subject to change should COVID-19 infection rates rise.