Coronavirus: Broadway shows cancelled over outbreak

Your support helps us to tell the story

Support Now

Find out moreClose

My recent work focusing on Latino voters in Arizona has shown me how crucial independent journalism is in giving voice to underrepresented communities.

Your support is what allows us to tell these stories, bringing attention to the issues that are often overlooked. Without your contributions, these voices might not be heard.

Every dollar you give helps us continue to shine a light on these critical issues in the run up to the election and beyond

Eric Garcia

Washington Bureau Chief

Broadway theatre performances have shut down in New York City due to the coronavirus.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Thursday a ban on gatherings of more than 500 people, starting in the evening.

Most Broadway theatres have around 1,000 seats, meaning they fall under the restrictions.

Broadway shows, which are among the most popular tourist attractions in the city, stopped immediately after the announcement.

They are scheduled to resume on 13 April.

“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,” said Charlotte St Martin, the president of the Broadway League, a national trade association.

“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.”

Current Browday shows include crowd-pleasers such as Hamilton, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and To Kill a Mockingbird.

The decision to ban gatherings of more than 500 people came as part of a range of extraordinary measures in New York City – the nation’s biggest.

According to Mr Cuomo, 328 people in New York are confirmed to have the disease.

The spreading virus has already led to cancellation or postponement of dozens of US entertainment industry events, including the Coachella and South by Southwest festivals, CinemaCon, the E3 videogames convention and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Broadway was spooked on Wednesday when an usher who had worked at two New York theatres tested positive for coronavirus. Owners of the two venues said they had ordered deep cleanings and their shows went ahead on Wednesday.

Additional reporting by agencies