Our Client
Singin’ in the Rain is a smash-hit stage show with recent success at Chichester Festival Theatre, in the West End, and at London’s Sadler’s Wells. Jonathan Church’s critically acclaimed production of Singin’ in the Rain is on tour across the UK in 2022.
Their accommodation problem
Prior to travelling from London, UK to Tokyo Japan, the production team was required to self-isolate for a period of 10 days. With a team of 45 to look after, Matt Henry, Company Manager, was racking his brain for a solution. They needed to be close to Heathrow Airport, accommodated in one place, staying in a self-contained environment, and able to check in safely with minimal contact with others.
A timely email from The Apartment Network saved Matt several hours of research, emails, and phone calls – Serviced Apartments could be just the solution!
“The Apartment Network turned what was looking like a difficult situation into a problem quickly solved and we were able to book with confidence.”
Matt Henry, Company Manager, Singin’ in the Rain
Our Solution
With our extensive network of apartment suppliers, we quickly identified two Aparthotel properties that would work for the Singin’ in the Rain team. Aparthotels are purpose built Serviced Apartment properties, featuring many self-contained apartments in one building, often with hotel-like facilities including a 24/7 reception.
“Serviced Apartments have been a go-to solution for a number of clients with different circumstances during the pandemic. The aparthotel model proved the perfect solution for Singin’ in the Rain. Many of our guests want to retain independence during these challenging times and being able to cook the food you want to eat is often important.
“We are delighted we could help and take the stress away from Matt!”
Anne Hammond, Supply Chain Manager, The Apartment Network
We proposed two options to Singin’ in the Rain. Both enabled everyone to stay in the same location, in self-contained apartments where they could live independently for the isolation period. Part of the offering included delivery of breakfast for all rooms with an optional lunch and dinner service, taken up by two guests, with the rest choosing to cook for themselves. Unlike hotel rooms, serviced apartments have fully equipped kitchens and dining areas, enabling guests to cook and relax just as they would at home.
“The team at TAN were brilliant from the start – I needed to make sure I found the right accommodation for the isolation period and TAN’s patience, quick responses to my questions, and general helpfulness was hugely appreciated.”
Matt Henry, Company Manager, Singin’ in the Rain
The Result
The Apartment Network booked 44 studio apartments and two, one-bedroom apartment at Staybridge Suites, London Heathrow.
“We recently had the opportunity to work alongside the fabulous team from TAN, for a large group need within the entertainment sector. The process began with a specific brief from TAN on the clients’ needs. This was critical as the group had to isolate prior to outbound travel, with minimal touch points and ensuring all safety and hygiene measures met strict expectations.”
Jas Sandhu, Director of Sales & Marketing, Staybridge Suites London Heathrow
Due to the nature of the booking and the potential impact of PCR test results, there was some uncertainty around length of stay. TAN arranged a flexible cancellation policy and the reassurance that Singin’ in the Rain had the rooms for as long as required. This provided Matt Henry, Company Manager, Singin’ in the Rain, with reassurance and peace of mind when committing to the booking. On the day of departure, a late check-out ensured everyone could stay as safe as possible before heading to the airport.
The Manager of the Staybridge property met the Singin’ in the Rain team personally, ensuring a smooth check-in. On arrival, a separate room was provided to enable the guests to take PCR tests in a safe environment, avoiding contact with others.
“The TAN team proactively identified the needs of the group, which allowed the hotel to act in a timely manner and ensure all guests had a seamless stay. Travel needs are changing at a rapid pace in the current environment. By working closely with TAN, we were able to offer a solution to cater for breakfast delivery to all suites along with a dedicated area for Covid testing prior to travel, ensuring minimal touch points and contact with anyone outside of the group.”
Jas Sandhu, Director of Sales & Marketing, Staybridge Suites London Heathrow
Matt Henry and the rest of his team stayed safe and were all able to fly to Japan together where they performed the show successfully in Tokyo & Osaka over a number of weeks before returning to the UK to continue touring around the country.
“Our stay at Staybridge was perfect – we were really looked after and it felt very safe for us, which was important. A huge thank you from the whole team.
We look forward to working with TAN again this year when we are touring in Ireland.”
Matt Henry, Company Manager, Singin’ in the Rain
Singin’ in the Rain
To find out more about the show, click here for the official show website.
