Broadway shows will return this fall - and tickets are going on sale now

After more than a year without Broadway shows in New York City, it's been announced that they can reopen this September, in accordance with New York State's health and safety guidance.

Broadway theaters saw their performances suspended shortly after the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Now, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced tickets will go on sale on May 6 for shows that will start September 14—and they will be made available at 100% capacity.

As one of the world's greatest centers for arts and culture, New York City has slowly begun reopening its famous attractions, including the Museum of Natural History, the Guggenheim art gallery and the Bronx Zoo. The latest announcement builds upon the reopening of performing arts and live entertainment venues at limited capacities last month.

"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," said Governor Cuomo in a statement. "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 beginning this September, bringing back this beloved world-famous attraction."

There is also work to be done ahead of the September to ensure safe and heathy environments for audiences, performers and employees. The reassuring note for audiences is that if performances need to be postponed due to public health conditions, theaters have planned to offer customer-friendly refunds and exchange policies.

Speaking to Fox 5, Actors Equity's spokesperson, Brandon Lorenz, said that rehearsal time is needed for actors and particularly dancers to prepare for working again. "That is very difficult athletic work," he said. "And normally the dancers on Broadway, when they're actively working on a show, they're working out, they're staying in shape, training on a regular basis. All of that is much more difficult due to the pandemic."

According to Sara Bareilles, composer and lyrist for the Broadway musical Waitress, the announcement is the news the Broadway community and its fans have been awaiting. "It's time to get back to work, and I can't wait to be back on stage very soon," she said in a statement. "Nothing beats Broadway and it's coming back stronger than ever."

For updates on ticket sales, individual show announcements and performance dates, please check Broadway.org.

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