New York City to reopen fully from July 1; Broadway set for fall reopening

Will the Great White Way finally reopen soon?

In recent months, discussions have taken place as to when New York City can get back to normality. There's been a Broadway reopening plan, including dedicated vaccination sites for Broadway workers. A further update has been given today, April 29, in which New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said the city will be ready to fully reopen on July 1, with Broadway shows reopening in September.

Speaking on MSNBC and as reported on Broadway News, de Blasio said: "the city is planning for a 100% capacity reopening in July of stores, restaurants, gyms and arenas due to the increasing pace of vaccinations.

Broadway theaters will still be aiming for a September reopening... I'd say you should expect Broadway full strength in September... but I'd love to see some of the smaller shows up in July and August." Ultimately, it's down to Governor Cuomo as to when all theatres across New York City can reopen their doors for audience members. But, some theatres have begun to welcome live audiences once more, with concerts, cabarets and solo events taking place in May 2021.

On May 3, Governor Cuomo stated that New York capacity restrictions can lift from May 19. While Broadway shows would be allowed to reopen, it's still likely theatres will reopen from the fall. 

According to sources in NY1, "the initial plan is for.. shows like Wicked, The Lion King and Hamilton to return first, most likely around Labor Day." 

Mayor de Blasio did not give specifics as to which shows could get the green light sooner than others. But it's likely that shows with a smaller cast size and seating capacity will open first.

Ahead of Broadway's reopening, some shows have posted tentative performance dates. Chicago, Jagged Little Pill and Ain't Too Proud could open from as early as September, with Diana and The Music Man in December. Check out our guide on which Broadway shows will open in 2021.