Broadway to remain closed through June 7 because of coronavirus pandemic

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Exclusive: Amid coronavirus pandemic, Broadway starts bring virtual performances to nursing homes

Singer Francesca Capetta formed Caravan of Angels to bring music to enlighten the lives of children and elderly people in hospitals, senior centers and nursing homes through shows, concerts and entertainment by professional performers. Now, her organization is enlisting Broadway stars and helping to bring music to those who need it most during the coronavirus pandemic.

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Broadway producers announced on Wednesday that musicals and plays will continue to be suspended through June 7.

Broadway abruptly closed on March 12 and announced plans to reopen the week of April 13. But that timetable was increasingly looking too optimistic as the city saw an alarming surge in coronavirus deaths.

“Our top priority continues to be the health and well-being of Broadway theatergoers 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, President of the Broadway League.

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In accordance with guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and under the continued direction of Governor Andrew Cuomo, Broadway shows in New York City will extend the current suspension of all performances through June 7, 2020.

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“Broadway will always be at the very heart of the Big Apple, and we join with artists, theatre professionals, and fans in looking forward to the time when we can once again experience live theatre together.”

"Those holding tickets for performances through June 7, 2020 will receive an e-mail from their point of purchase with information regarding exchanges or refunds. Any customers holding tickets through June 7, 2020 that have not received an e-mail by April 12th should reach out to their point of purchase for information regarding exchanges or refunds."

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Already some shows scheduled to open this spring have abandoned plans of ever returning, including “Hangmen” and a revival of Edward Albee’s “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” Others — like revivals of “Caroline, or Change” and “Birthday Candles” — have been moved to the fall.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.