New York City may be the city that never sleeps but right now, Broadway isn’t going to be staying up at all.
According to a release by the Broadway League, all performances will remain shuttered until at least May 30, 2021.
Broadway shows have been canceled since last March when the NY Governor Andrew Cuomo placed an order to disallow all gatherings of more than 500 people. Since that date, Broadway has been dark, quiet, and theaters have remained closed.
That will continue through until next year but there are two things that could change that. An election in November and a CDC or goverment ordance that allows openings. Of course, a vaccine for COVID would also do the same thing.
If you are planning a trip to New York, don’t plan on taking in a show but you can still visit the Broadway district nonetheless.
Accoring to the Hollywood Reporter, 31 productions were shut down last March when New York was facing a brutal rise in cases. Without the Broadway shows, Broadway League president Charlotte St. Martin estimates as many 97,000 people have been affected by the shutdown. Including workers, actors, directors, and production crews.
Broadway has remained a major money making entity for decades with over $2.1 billion in revenue annually. The amount of money lost with its closure will be much higher considering it is a major tourist draw to the New York City economy.
It is uncertain of shows will be allowed to begin rehearsals prior to their reopening or if that is the soonest cast members can get together.