This is an answer from one of the artists who attended the opening evening.

>I would like an honest answer as to how you would feel, if I
asked all smokers if they wouldn't mind having a quick drag whenever they liked, but outside the room. <
Answer
Tricky one this. Given the general move towards restricting smoking, I guess that most smokers are getting used to this so perhaps there would not be a problem. On the other hand, those who smoke regularly (I only have the occasional cigar, usually when I'm out for a drink) may well see this a soff putting - especially if , like many of us, they normally go to open pub sessions where smoking is allowed. I noticed that a fair few of the instrumentalists smoke (most of Cara for example).
Smoking at the bar, or at the back of the room might be the best option - then at least smokers don't have to leave the room and non-smokers and singers can sit at the front with out too much discomfort.