The Broadway League has announced that shows will be suspended until at least 1 June. By that time the world’s most famous theatre district will have been closed for 15 months.
“With nearly 97,000 workers who rely on Broadway for their livelihood and an annual economic impact of USD14.8bn (€12.6bn) to the city, our membership is committed to re-opening as soon as conditions permit us to do so,” said Broadway League president Charlotte St Martin. “We are working tirelessly with multiple partners on sustaining the industry once we raise our curtains again.”
Mary McColl, executive director at the Actors’ Equity Association, released the following statement: “This is a deeply painful time for everyone who depends on the arts for their livelihood. We are at this moment because, seven months into the pandemic, our nation still lacks a coherent national strategy for masks and testing which could help bring the virus under control.
“Too many in the industry need help now as we face another six months without work. The ongoing lack of work in the arts means we face a critical need for a federal COBRA health insurance subsidies, renewed federal unemployment benefits and arts funding. Washington must act.”
Anyone who has purchased tickets for dates through 30 May 30 2021 should contact their point of purchase for details about exchanges and refunds.
The news comes in contrast to the West End, which has started reopening venues. At the moment limited capacity shows are taking place at venues such as The London Palladium, Story House Theatre and Troubadour Theatre.