WAUSAU, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – The Grand Theater announced Thursday that is 2020-2021 season is being postponed.
There will be no live events through at least November.
“The Grand is working hard to facilitate a safe return to live performances as soon as possible, and their focus is on the health and safety protocols necessary to protect artists, staff, volunteers, and patrons,” a press release from The Grand said. “Shows like Three Dog Night and The TEN Tenors – originally scheduled for fall – include large numbers of performers and crew, in addition to 1,200 audience members, which would make it impossible to maintain social distance.” It is unclear if fall shows will be rescheduled or canceled.
The Grand Theater hasn’t hosted a live performance since mid-March. As a nonprofit organization, The Grand relies on ticket and event revenue. It’s losses are estimated at $1.1-million.
The Grand’s Ghost Light Fund, named after the long-held theatrical tradition of leaving a single light burning whenever a theater is unoccupied, was created to help them return to stage soon.
Community support of the Ghost Light Fund will help The Grand:
- Maintain the historic theater and make the enhancements necessary to reopen safely
- Provide engaging “intermission” programming including virtual performances and educational programs for all ages
- Retain staff to prepare for the time when it is safe to fully reopen the facility
- Offset revenue lost from cancelled performances
“For over 90 years, The Grand has stood strong in downtown Wausau and our community has always been incredibly supportive,” said Sean Wright, Executive Director of The Grand Theater. “We know they will help us through this challenging time, ensuring that we emerge stronger and ready to welcome them back to our historic space when it is safe to do so.”
The Grand said it will soon announce alternative arts programming in lieu of large-scale events. “We are looking forward to sharing our plans for programming over the coming months,” said Sean Wright, Executive Director of The Grand Theater. “While it won’t be a traditional fall ‘season,’ we will continue to live our mission and engage our community through the arts.”
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