Broadway theatres to reopen Sept. 14, says Governor Cuomo

New York capacity restrictions will lift across the state from May 19.

Following yesterday's news that all Broadway theatres could be allowed to reopen later this month, Governor Cuomo has provided more details on Broadway reopening. In a press conference, Cuomo said that Broadway shows would reopen with a full capacity from Sept. 14, 2021.

Cuomo also stated that tickets for Broadway shows would be on sale from tomorrow, May 6. Further information on Broadway tickets, including which shows will be on sale from May 6, is to be announced.

Broadway shows had been posting a September reopening date for some time, including Jagged Little Pill, Chicago and Ain't Too Proud.

Prior to this, the Broadway community had been planning their own announcements for May 11. It is unknown whether shows will continue to release information on May 11.

As stated in the New York Times, "about 30 shows are currently planning to begin performances on Broadway before the end of 2021 — about half starting in September, and the rest spread out across the year's final quarter." All new plays announced for fall 2021 are by Black writers, including Pass Over at the August Wilson Theatre and Thoughts of a Colored Man at the Golden Theatre.

Hamilton, Wicked and The Lion King are expected to open in September 2021. The Phantom of the Opera is expected to open in October 2021. 

In the Broadway League's last statement, they said: ""We applaud the Governor's recent announcement easing capacity limits on performance venues in New York State. We are encouraged by this good news, which is a long-awaited indication that New York is truly on the road to recovery. We look forward to reopening at full capacity and are working to safely welcome audiences and employees back to Broadway theatres this fall. As always, we continue to work closely with our elected officials and will share more information as soon as plans become finalized."

In recent months, many steps have been taken to reopen Broadway quickly and safely. There's a dedicated vaccination site for Broadway workers as well as NYPops Up Festival encouraging people to see live entertainment again.