The Broadway League, the trade association that regulates theater performances in New York City, said Monday that all Broadway shows would be canceled through the end of 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The group says that those who have purchased tickets to shows before Jan. 3, 2021 will automatically receive an email detailing refund and exchange information.
"Every single member of our community is eager to get back to work sharing stories that inspire our audience through the transformative power of a shared live experience," Thomas Schumacher, the Broadway League's Chairman of the Board, said in a statement released Monday. "The safety of our cast, crew, orchestra and audience is our highest priority and we look forward to returning to our stages only when it’s safe to do so. One thing is for sure, when we return we will be stronger and more needed than ever.”
“Our membership is working closely with the theatrical unions and in concert with key experts and some of the greatest minds inside and outside of the industry to explore protocols for all aspects of reopening. We are focused on identifying and implementing necessary measures that will enable us to resume performances safely for Broadway audiences and employees,” Charlotte St. Martin, the president of the Broadway League, said in a statement. “We are determined to bring back the people who rely on this industry for their livelihood, and to welcome back all those who love this vital part of New York City, as soon as it is safe to do so. "
Broadway performances in New York shut down on March 12, the day before President Donald Trump declared the pandemic a national emergency. Last month, the Broadway League said it was canceling all performances through Sept. 6.
