Broadway shows are expected to resume in September 2021, while Covid vaccinations are still being distributed across the country. As of May 2021, more than a third of New Yorkers had received all of their vaccines. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on July 1st that the city would reopen, with the exception of Broadway theaters. The reopening of Broadway shows, however, has yet to be determined. The target date, according to Broadway experts, is September 2021.
In June 2021, Broadway tickets will be available for purchase. At this time, the number of people expected to attend a show is unknown. According to some projections, shows will start with a volume of 75% and increase to 100% by 2022. The majority of it, on the other hand, is based on vaccine and Covid data. Furthermore, although attendance rules have yet to be established, many people believe masks and social distancing will be used indoors.
The issue with reopening with a small audience is that certain Broadway shows can only be profitable if they are completely or nearly completely booked. According to some, raising the ability ceiling to 75% would result in revenue losses and the cancellation of certain shows.
Furthermore, the air filtration systems in several Broadway theaters are outdated. As a result, everyone in the audience, including the actors, is in danger. Installing an HVAC system in a Broadway theater is prohibitively expensive, prompting some to seek federal help. The public has yet to learn about upgrades to air filtration systems in Broadway theaters.
It has been suggested that when entering a Broadway theater, audience members show proof of vaccinations. Although 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 subject. Customers’ temperatures are frequently taken at the door and they are allowed to watch shows while wearing masks.
One of the shows set to reopen in September 2021 is Exotique Men, a popular NYC male revue. “We’ve had some setbacks,” a firm spokeswoman said, “but we’re optimistic about the future.” The company’s future is uncertain because many residents have left the area and tourism is at an all-time low. According to the spokesperson, “people are still fleeing Manhattan in search of more comfortable living areas, and the number of tourists is decreasing.” “However, we remain optimistic about the future because New York is a resilient city that overcomes adversity.”
If more New Yorkers get vaccinated, Broadway theaters may be able to reopen in September 2021. Many people believe that if the proper procedures are followed, well-known Broadway shows will be able to return. The mayor and governor would have to wait for vaccine updates and formal advice from the cast, crew, managers, and audience members.
