Nova Scotia will further ease restrictions around participants in performing arts, sport, and organized physical activity, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the province continues to be low.

The number of people participating in these activities without physical distancing will increase from 10 to 50 people, as of Oct. 1. 

“Art and sport are vital to our physical, mental, and social wellbeing,” said Dr. Robert Strang, the province’s chief medical officer of health in a press release.”Unfortunately, COVID-19 has put some of these activities on hold.”

The new changes will help most sports teams, including players, officials, coaches, and instructors, resume practice and play in competitions. Recreational league sports, such as adult hockey, and drop-in activities, such as open swims and skates, will also benefit from the changes.

“This will be welcome news, especially for children and families for whom participation in sport and other activities is such an important part of their lives,” said Leo Glavine, minister of communities, culture, and heritage, in the release.

But people casually playing soccer in the park, for example, will still have to adhere to the current restrictions, with only 10 people allowed to gather without physical distancing.

For the performing arts, performers, directors, cast, crew will be able to gather without physical distancing for rehearsals or performances. 

Audiences must continue following current gathering limits while attending these events. Outdoors, the maximum number of people allowed with physical distancing is 250 people. For indoor events, the limit is 50 per cent of a facility’s capacity, up to 200 people, with physical distancing, and wearing masks.

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