Shuttered Broadway means financial struggles for many. Photo by Donald Tong from Pexels
Jessica Holt, a 21-year-old Pace University student and avid theatergoer, is struggling to cope amid the absence of Broadway. Theater has been an integral part of her life since childhood, when she participated in school theater programs and attended professional shows in the city. “Living in New York, it’s always been a part of the city landscape,” said Holt. “And it feels like a piece of New York is missing.”
After the COVID-19 New York outbreak began in March 2020, Broadway was immediately affected. Several members of the theater community tested positive for the virus, and the industry quickly decided to close its doors. Not knowing how long the closure would last, the unexpectedness of the future has loomed over the Theater District. Last month, Broadway officially extended its closure to May 30, 2021, which will mark over a year of shutdown for New York theaters.
The theater community took a massive hit earlier this summer after Broadway actor Nick Cordero died after a long battle with COVID-19. The 41-year old star was renowned within the community, originating roles in Waitress, A Bronx Tale, and Bullets Over Broadway, the latter for which he earned a Tony nomination. His passing came after months of suffering, which included a medically induced coma and leg amputation. Jeff Wilson, a 47-year old music educator and theater director was particularly affected by his death. “He didn’t just die, he suffered,” said Wilson.
Those like Wilson who rely on theaters for their livelihood have wrestled with uncertainty during Broadway’s absence. Countless other theater professionals are currently unemployed, searching for jobs that aren’t there. “I don’t want more people to get sick because of this,” said Wilson. “But it’s people’s livelihoods at stake.”
Since Broadway’s initial closure, a small movement has emerged pushing for a transition to online spaces. Zoom theater has given theater artists the opportunity to continue practicing their craft. However, not everyone likes watching Broadway in a box. Gabrielle Goubran, a 23-year-old Long Island resident and Hunter College graduate, has tuned into her fair share of virtual theater since the pandemic began and doesn’t feel satisfied with the experience. “I really haven’t been impressed,” said Goubran. “There’s something about the energy of live theater you just can’t recreate.”
Still, even in the midst of the uncertainty for Broadway’s future, fans like Holt remain optimistic. “This community is incredibly strong,” she said. “And I know that we’ll make it out of this even stronger, and Broadway will return to normal.”
Series: Coronavirus
