The production company behind London’s “Hamilton,” “Phantom of the Opera,” and other shows said Wednesday that performances will not return until 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Cameron Mackintosh and his producing partners Delfont Mackintosh Theatres said “Hamilton,” “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Misérables,” and “Mary Poppins” will be delayed until “as early as practical in 2021.”
The company also said they are starting to speak to staff about “potential redundancies” for employees on the productions.
“This decision is heart-breaking for me, as I am sure it is for my employees, as everyone who has worked with me over the last 50 years, on or off the stage, knows how much I care about what I do and how I do it,” Mackintosh said in a statement.
The producer also said there has been “no tangible practical support” from the government, forcing him to “take drastic steps to ensure” he has the resources for his business to survive and shows and theaters to open next year.
Customers who have booked to date will be contacted and offered a credit voucher, which can be used for priority booking when new dates are announced, or a refund.
Theaters were among the businesses shut down in London as part of closures to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus.
Shops and outdoor spaces such as zoos are starting to reopen, but indoor venues in the United Kingdom remain closed due to social distancing guidelines, according to The Associated Press.
The government has said it is reviewing the distance rule amid pressure from industries, and has penciled in a potential July 4 reopening date for pubs and restaurants, the AP reports.
However, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said “it is going to be exceptionally difficult” for theaters to open, according to the AP.
Last month the Broadway League said Broadway shows will remain closed through Labor Day.