Leadership / 05.20.20

Broadway Shutdown Extended Through Labor Day

Access Staff

Variety (05/12/20) Rubin, Rebecca

The shutdown of Broadway has been extended for the third time since its March 12 suspension, which is now scheduled to continue through Labor Day. The move is unsurprising, as arts, entertainment, and recreation venues are in the last phase of New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's plans to reopen the state. For the moment, theaters are offering refunds and exchanges for tickets purchased for performances through Sept. 6. “While all Broadway shows would love to resume performances as soon as possible, we need to ensure the health and well-being of everyone who comes to the theater — behind the curtain and in front of it — before shows can return,” said Broadway League President Charlotte St. Martin. “The Broadway League's membership is working in cooperation with the theatrical unions, government officials, and health experts to determine the safest ways to restart our industry.” Actors' Equity Association reported that safety measures must be implemented prior to a reopening. The closure threatens New York City's theater industry with severe harm, especially because patrons tend to skew older, and also because of its heavy dependence on tourism.

Read the full story from Variety. 

Tags: News , Broadway , COVID-19 , Coronavirus