Filling a theatre in times of corona

TL;DR

This paper presents an optimization model for maximizing theatre capacity under COVID-19 social distancing constraints, achieving up to 70% utilization with multiple performances, helping theatres adapt economically during the pandemic.

Contribution

It introduces a novel capacity optimization model based on trapezoid packings to enhance theatre utilization under social distancing rules.

Findings

Up to 40% capacity utilization for single shows.

Up to 70% capacity utilization with two performances.

Model effectively balances safety and economic needs.

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce an optimization problem posed by the Music Building Eindhoven (MBE) to deal with the economical consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for theatre halls. We propose a model for maximizing the number of guests in a theatre hall that respects social distancing rules, and is based on trapezoid packings. Computational results show that up to 40% of the normal capacity can be used for a single show setting, and up to 70% in case artists opt for two consecutive performances per evening.