The Show Must Not Go On: 14 Times Broadway Went Dark

(via Mental Floss) On Monday, June 29, the Broadway League announced that all Broadway shows have been canceled for the remainder of the year to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Though it’s far from the first time the brilliant lights of the Broadway marquees have gone dark, it’s definitely the longest drought; most of the previous shutdowns lasted no more than a few days or weeks, whereas this one began back on March 12.

It’s also the first time a public health scare is to blame; other culprits include worker strikes, power outages, and inclement weather. While you’re waiting for Broadway’s stars to return to the stage, put on your favorite original cast recording and find out how past shutdowns played out, as compiled by Untapped Cities.