In response to the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic which has continued to pose threats to populations around the world, we are seeing more reactions from governments and organisations around how to reduce the risk of infection and an epidemic which could put further pressure on medical and economic systems. Very recently we have seen Carnival Corporation’s Princess Cruises suspend all upcoming trips for the next two months, and even more surprisingly, Broadway shut down entirely for the next month.
In response to a direction given by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, all Broadway shows in the city will be suspended immediately from now until the week of 13 April 2020. The reason for this decision, provided by the Broadway League, is to “support of the health and well-being of the theatregoing public, as well as those who work in the theatre industry”.
Our top priority has been and will continue to be the health and well-being of Broadway theatregoers and the thousands of people who work in the theatre industry every day, including actors, musicians, stagehands, ushers, and many other dedicated professionals. Broadway has the power to inspire, enrich and entertain, and together we are committed to making that vital spirit a reality. Once our stages are lit again, we will welcome fans back with open arms so that they can continue to experience the joy, heart, and goodwill that our shows so passionately express every night.
Charlotte St. Martin | President of the Broadway League
Those who have purchased tickets to a performance during this period should immediately contact their point of purchase for a refund or exchange. My thoughts go out to both those directly involved in performances which for the next month will be unable to do their job, as well as the ticketing staff who have a long few weeks ahead of them to process a months worth of refunds and exchanges. This is relatively breaking news, so hopefully, we hear more from major producers over the next couple of days about how their cast and crew will be cared for while Broadway goes dark.
The next month was to be an active period for Broadway, with at least one new production opening every week. Opening nights being affected by this shut down include The Minutes, Hangmen, Company, The Lehman Trilogy, Diana, Mrs. Doubtfire, Caroline or Change and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf. While this currently only impacts Broadway at this time, it is unknown if other theatre districts or even individual venues around the world will adopt such a policy.
Since I have not had the chance to address the Coronavirus outbreak to date, I would like to strongly advise all my readers to exercise discretion when it comes to where they get their information from. There are many sources of questionable information or disinformation, so I would recommend getting information for yourself and your family from reputable sources such as the World Health Organisation or your federal governments Department of Health.
