New York capacity restrictions to lift from May 19, says Governor Cuomo

It's likely that Broadway productions will reopen in the coming months.

UPDATE: Broadway shows will be allowed to reopen at full capacity from Sept. 14, 2021, with more information here.

New York governor Andrew Cuomo has stated that the majority of capacity restrictions in the tri-state area will lift from May 19. As a result, all Broadway theatres could reopen from May 19, but it's more likely that Broadway shows will open from September in line with the full opening of New York City. Just last week, Mayor Bill de Blasio said New York City could reopen fully from July 1, with Broadway shows to follow suit. 

As Coronavirus vaccination rates rise across New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, more indoor businesses will be able to open. This can include indoor theatres, of which smaller venues across the city are opening with live, in-person shows in May 2021. 

The Broadway League released the following statement: "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."

Governor Cuomo has suggested that "from a capacity point of view", all Broadway theatres will be allowed to reopen from May 19. However, with cast members having to rehearse ahead of opening productions, as well as resuming continuous runs of shows that have been suspended for over 12 months, it's likely that Broadway shows won't open again until the fall. Check out our guide for when Broadway shows will open in 2021.

According to sources at NY1, "the initial plan is for.. shows like Wicked, The Lion King and Hamilton to return first, most likely around Labor Day." Shows including Jagged Little Pill, Chicago and Ain't Too Proud have posted performance dates from September 2021.

One-off events have been taking place on Broadway in the past weeks, as part of NYPops Up Festival. Upcoming Broadway performances during the festival are to be confirmed.

^{Photo credit: Broadway sign (Photo by Josh Hallett on Flickr under CC 2.0)}