The BFI has confirmed that the BFI Flare: London LGBTIQ+ Film Festival will go ahead, despite the coronavirus outbreak.
Flare LGBTIQ+ is on
“We know many of you have questions about the impact of COVID-19 on BFI Flare: London LGBTIQ+ Film Festival”, the BFI said in a press statement.
“Public, industry and staff safety is of paramount concern to the BFI and we have been monitoring public health advice carefully.”
“Following the UK Government and Public Health England update yesterday afternoon (12 March 2020), we will be continuing with the Festival.”
The institute said it is reassuring guests and filmmakers that it intends to deliver all screenings and events as scheduled.
The BFI said it was constantly and closely monitoring and reviewing the situation continually.
Should there be any changes to the current advice, it will respond accordingly. It plans to let guests and stakeholders know of any changes to plans quickly.
It also said it will be advising all ticket buyers and customers that Festival screenings and events are happening; and that filmmakers will be supporting their work with Q&As.
“We appreciate that this global pandemic is creating uncertainty and anxiety as every country is in a different stage and thus advice differs from region to region.
“It’s important to us that we honour the incredible work of filmmakers who are counting on us to screen their work to audiences, and also carry on with this important Festival which means so much to so many people, unless of course public health advice changes in the UK.”
The BFI has also urged anyone with further questions around the event to reach out to it.
BFI Flare is due to start next week on Wednesday 18 March. The festival is set to run until 28 March.