New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has given Broadway shows the OK to reopen this month.
Cuomo made the announcement as part of his COVID-19 briefing on May 3. In the speech, he announced the easing of social distancing restrictions in certain venues including restaurants, salons, gyms, and yes, Broadway theaters. Patrons will still have to socially distance and wear masks as a precaution.
The governor further clarified in a statement May 5 that Broadway can reopen at partial capacity beginning May 19. Shows can regain full capacity in September, and it may take that long until we see reopenings actually happen.
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“Broadway is at the core of our New York identity, and a big part of our economy which employs countless performers and show creators, and beginning this September, the show will go on,” Cuomo said. “Visitors from all around the world have come to New York to experience the arts and culture and see iconic performances on Broadway, and sadly, the pandemic put this unique New York experience on pause. Thankfully, as we continue to monitor the data and reopen our economy, we are now on track to allow full capacity performances on Broadway to resume in September, bringing back this beloved world-famous attraction.”
The enormous cost of mounting a production makes performing below a certain capacity financially unviable. The announcement of the September full-capacity date will allow shows to begin selling tickets, and help establish more firm dates for reopening. All Broadway theaters have been shut since March 12, 2020.
Fahd
Glad this is happening, but I’ve been avoiding crowds for some time now. Not sure I could sit in a full theater without experiencing high anxiety. Maybe Broadway could sponsor programs designed to help people overcome their anxiety, the way the airlines do with people who are afraid to fly.
Heywood Jablowme
Already booked a trip on Amtrak to NY for October!
Liquid Silver
I’m not sure I’d go, not until I’m certain the audience is guaranteed to be at least 75%-80% vaccinated. Since that would be…detrimental…to the Holy Dollar, they won’t bother.
Other states are also announcing full reopening, far too quickly, as vaccinations are refused by the Ridiculous Right and Soccer Mom Left. Even the NY Times puts September vaccination rates in the seventies, at best, assuming rates don’t continue to drop…which they look to be doing.
Pass.
Heywood Jablowme
As long as YOU are vaccinated, what exactly are you worried about? Read up on it and relax. (I say this as someone who was clobbered by Covid a year ago – ugh.)