Quote:

I don’t know if what I’ve read is true, but it stated that a street performer in England could be arrested for standing on the corner with his guitar case open for tips and playing cover tunes.

That seems to fit what you said in your OP.

Is that true?



Unfortunately, Bob, that's exactly right.

For years we had entertainment licenses which covered traditional venues. This was generally a good thing, because it meant that things like not overcrowding and fire regulations were adhered to and the system worked well. A few years ago, the politicians decided to extend the legislation to individuals and to anywhere a performance might be heard (or overheard} by the public. This now covers everything from street performers to sitting on the front porch playing guitar with a few friends.

In addition, the penalties seem to be completely disproportionate to the offence when compared to say, common assault or burglary. It would appear that it's cheaper to be a violent criminal than break the law as a musician!

ROG.

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