Staying safe and staying sane during Coronavirus measures

As I write this, Spain is on its third day of quarantine, in government mandated measures designed to combat the spread of the Coronavirus. Citizens are asked to stay at home and only essential visits to food shops, supermarkets and pharmacies are permitted. This means tablaos are closed, classes are off, theatre performances are cancelled, public gatherings and parties are suspended. Tourists are being asked to postpone and reschedule travel rather than cancel it, to help economic recovery once the Coronavirus situation passes. The flamenco industry is temporarily frozen, and the impact will be massive.

In Australia some measures have been introduced, such as a ban on gatherings of more than 500 people. This already has a major impact on the arts industry. And further measures and restrictions are on the horizon.

What can we do? Here’s a few things to consider…

Stay informed

The latest updates on the rapidly evolving situation are available on the Australian Department of Health website: https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert.

The ABC has established an overview page of all Coronavirus updates and stories: https://www.abc.net.au/news/story-streams/coronavirus/.

Take it online

Classes and schools are still running so there’s no need to panic. However if Australia follows the international trend, that may change. If you are a flamenco teacher or run a school, consider different options for taking your classes online, so that you are prepared if and when it becomes necessary.

For small group or one on one classes, particular guitar and singing classes, Skype or Zoom or other free video conferencing tools may be appropriate. You can ask your students now if they have a computer with a webcam and microphone (and an internet connection of course!) so that you are ready to transfer online. Don’t forget to exchange Skype handles or personal meeting IDs ahead of time.

For group classes, YouTube live stream may be a suitable free option. You can make your live stream private and share it with your students. Although the students’ home environments will be different to the studio, for most people it will still be possible to follow a dance class of arm movements and marcajes at home. Further information is available on how to start a YouTube live stream as well as FAQs.

Support the arts

The arts industry in Australia, including flamenco, is already suffering and will likely suffer further as new measures are introduced. While measures such as event restrictions are understandable and a necessary part of the social distancing needed to combat the Coronavirus, they have an undesirable economic impact. If you have been impacted, visit I lost my gig to help provide important data about cancelled events. You may also consider signing the petition calling for government support for the arts industry at this time.

Stay sane and stay in touch

This is a difficult time but not a time for panic. Despite the lockdown in Spain, the response on social media is a great example of how to stay positive should we face similar restrictions in Australia. Here are a few suggestions for keeping the flamenco vibe going:

NewsCatherine MillerComment