it would be good to see if something could get established before all the aggro of this wretched law weighs in

The current law is no more lenient - there's various opinions about whether the "Two in a bar exemption" still applies until the new act is implemented. Even if it does, you're still limited to maximum of two performers per session, unless the pub has an entertainments license.

In fact the new law could be useful, if the landlord ticks the entertainments box on the form when he applies for his new license, he should be able to get the provision for FREE. The guidance states that the LA cannot make this subject to premises alterations. If the application for entertainment is made at a later date, the landlord will have to pay for it.