New York Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced that Broadway shows would reopen at 100 percent capacity beginning September 14th.

Broadway has been shut down for more than a year due to the pandemic. Not all shows are planning to open by this date, but they will welcome back theater lovers on a rolling basis, accomodating to their individual needs.

Broadway League President, Charlotte St. Martin, said that Cuomo’s decision signifies that he “clearly recognizes the impact of Broadway’s return on the city and state’s economy and the complexity of restarting an entire industry that has been dormant.”

Many on Broadway are very excited at the thought of theaters opening in just a few months.

According to the Broadway News, “theatrical offices have been working to ready Broadway productions….what’s clear thus far is that the gears to reopen the industry are in motion.”

Full COVID-19 safety protocols for performances at Broadway theaters are being discussed.

Governor Cuomo said that the state would follow guidance and lift mask and social distancing requirements for vaccinated individuals in most outdoor and indoor settings. This could allow Broadway houses to open up this fall to people without masks.

Some theatergoers are concerned about their safety.

Julia Aiello, a senior at WJPS said, “Thankfully I am fully vaccinated, and while I do not think I will return right away after opening, I can definitely see myself returning a few months after, once more of the population is vaccinated.”

As stated by New York State’s Department of Health, “Attendee capacity of any performance must be limited to the lesser of 33% of the maximum occupancy for the particular area or 50 people, exclusive of performers, crew, or other staff who are necessary for the event.”

Some producers feel it would not be worth it to open unless they can return to full capacity. We will have to wait and see if regulations are relaxed.

Some shows expected to open in September are “Wicked”, “The Lion King”, “Aladdin”, “Hamilton”, “Come From Away.”

Katherine Pappas, a WJPS junior said, “I really wanted to see Chicago as the first show after the reopening. My friend and I bought tickets and we are so excited!”

Broadway is back! Actors will entertain us. They will make us smile, cry, laugh, and appreciate live theater again.

“Empty Theatre (almost)” by Jaako is licensed under CC BY 2.0