Italy Closes Theatres

The performing arts industry is holding its breath at the continued spread of the coronavirus - with the actions of Italian authorities proving a chilling glimpse at what might happen in other countries.

Italy's famous opera house La Scala in Milan has been closed due to its proximity to the latest outbreak.

The following statement was released by the opera house: “The Teatro alla Scala’s performances are suspended in relation to the spread of the coronavirus as a precautionary measure pending the provisions of the competent authorities."

“In relation to the diffusion of the Coronavirus, the Ministry of Health, in agreement with the President of the Lombardy Region, has ordered the suspension of any events and initiatives and of any meeting in public places, including cultural ones, until Sunday 1 March.”

As well as strict emergency measures being put in place at La Scala, the Italian authorities have banned all public events – including the Venice Carnival, which is attended by up to 3 million people every year, and the town of Codogno is currently on lockdown.

With US Health authorities warning that it is inevitable that the virus will enter the country producers on Broadway Producers too much be nervous.

January and February are traditionally the slowest months due to the weather in New York.

For the first week in February, 239,713 people attended a show, compared to 249,720 the previous year. This may be in part due to the restrictions on Chinese tourists being allowed to enter the United States.

Australian producers touring shows to China are already counting the cost.

The Michael Cassel Group has postponed a season of The Lion King that was scheduled to open in Wuhan on February 19. A five month in Beijing - scheduled from May - is now also in doubt.

The Australian cast of Come From Away were scheduled to perform in China at the conclusion of their Melbourne season, ahead of its Sydney opening in August. According to the Sydney Morning Herald the season - designed to provide consistent employment for the actors - is now in doubt.

Comment is being sought from Live Performance Australia.