TORONTO — An Ontario barbershop has reopened during the provincial lockdown using a loophole that the owner claims allows them to operate legally.
Chrome Artistic Barber in St. Catharines is cutting hair again after they said they revamped their salon to become a production and film studio.
Owner Alicia Hirter set up cameras, lights and microphones in her shop and said people who come in for haircuts are now auditioning for a part in a future TV show or podcast.
Under Ontario’s provincial lockdown laws, which came into effect on Dec. 26, film and television productions are allowed to continue operating.
“We’re not offering haircut appointments, we’re offering full auditions,” Hirter told CTV News Toronto on Thursday.
According to their website, clients can book adult auditions or child auditions. The booking details say the guests will receive a “complete haircut, neck shave, blow-dry and style all while candidly discussing life, its ups and downs and all in between.”
“Auditions will be recorded for intent (if chosen) to later use in a podcast and/or documentary format.”
Hirter said when guests arrive for their appointment, they must sign a talent release form and undergo a COVID-19 screening test. Guests are also required to wash their hands when arriving.
h/t coorslight