While Covid vaccinations are still being distributed across the country, Broadway shows are expected to resume in September 2021. More than a third of New Yorkers had received all of their vaccines as of May 2021. With the exception of Broadway theaters, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on July 1st that the city would reopen. However, no date has been set for the reopening of Broadway shows. According to Broadway experts, September 2021 is the target date.
Broadway tickets will be available for purchase in June 2021. The number of people who will attend a show is currently unknown. Shows will begin with a volume of 75% and increase to 100% by 2022, according to some projections. However, the majority of it is based on vaccine and Covid data. In addition, attendance rules have yet to be established, but many people believe masks and social distancing will be used indoors.
The problem with reopening with a small audience is that certain Broadway shows are only profitable if they are fully or nearly fully booked. Some argue that raising the ability ceiling to 75% would result in revenue losses and the cancellation of certain shows.
Furthermore, several Broadway theaters’ air filtration systems are obsolete. As a result, everyone in the audience is in danger, including the actors. The cost of installing an HVAC system in a Broadway theater is prohibitively expensive, prompting some to seek federal assistance. Upgrades to air filtration facilities in Broadway theaters have yet to be made public.
It has been suggested that audience members show proof of vaccinations when entering a Broadway theater. Despite the fact that some sports and venues, such as the Lincoln Center, require proof of vaccination, the Broadway League has yet to issue an official statement on the topic. Theaters frequently take patrons’ temperatures at the door and allow them to watch shows while wearing masks.
Exotique Men, a well-known troupe of male strippers NYC, is one of the shows set to reopen in September 2021. A firm spokeswoman said, “We’ve had some setbacks, but we’re optimistic about the future.” Because many residents have left the area and tourism is at an all-time low, the company’s future is uncertain. “People are still fleeing Manhattan in search of more comfortable living areas, and the number of tourists is decreasing,” according to the spokesperson. “However, because New York is a resilient city that overcomes adversity, we remain optimistic about the future.”
Broadway theaters may be able to reopen in September 2021 if more New Yorkers get vaccinated. Many people believe that well-known Broadway shows will be able to return if the proper procedures are followed. The mayor and governor would have to wait for vaccine updates as well as formal advice from the performers, crew, managers, and members of the audience.
