Broadway extends coronavirus shutdown into June

Broadway producers have extended the suspension of all shows on the Great White Way, saying that musical and plays among New York'smost-visited tourist attractions will stay shuttered through June 7 in accordance with latest medical guidance in New York.

"Our top priority continues to be the health and well-being of Broadway theatergoers and the thousands of people who work in the theater industry every day, including actors, musicians, stagehands, ushers and many other dedicated professionals." Charlotte St. Martin, president of the Broadway League, said in a statement Wednesday.

Theindustry group represents producers and theatre owners.

Broadway abruptly closed on March 12 forwhat was supposed to beone month,as authorities urged people to avoid large crowds.

Shows that were playing at the time of the closure included hits such as Hamilton, Harry Potter and the Cursed ChildandTo Kill a Mockingbird.

The initial plan was toreopen the week of April 13. However, with the coronavirus crisis continuing, the city seeing an alarming surge in deaths and much of the UnitedStates urged to stay at home, that timetable was increasingly looking too optimistic.

Already some shows scheduled to open this spring have abandoned plans of ever returning, including Hangmenand a revival of Edward Albee's Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

Others like revivals of Caroline, or Changeand Birthday Candles have been moved to the fall.

"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," St. Martin said.