-
The Highlands Playhouse has cancelled its summer performance lineup for 2020.
The show will not go on at Highlands Playhouse this summer.
Managing Director Lance Matzke announced on Sunday that the playhouse has cancelled its 2020 performance season.
In a written statement Matzke noted that playhouse staff had looked into alternative means of producing the summer shows, but determined the only feasible route to protect performers and the public during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic was to cancel.
“This decision was made with careful consideration from the Highlands Playhouse Board of Directors, Managing Director, Artistic Director, and Highlands Mayor Patrick Taylor,” Matzke said. “Many alternative plans were explored at length, attempting to bring high-quality entertainment to the Highlands community. However, after our deliberation, it became clear we have a responsibility to our patrons, donors, actors, technicians, staff and the future success of the playhouse to forgo our original plans.”
Highlands Playhouse was entering its 82nd season of live performances in 2020. The schedule included productions of “Mamma Mia,” “The Will Rogers Follies” and “Bright Star.” The playhouse also had a full slate of movies on tap for the summer.
“This pandemic will end, and as soon as it does, the Highlands Playhouse will be here for you,” Matzke said. “We are exploring new, creative ways to entertain you as soon as it is safe to do so and look forward to the return of bustling Highland’s sidewalks, long summer days, and a theatre full of excitement for a night of revelry or an intriguing new film.”
Matzke advised theater lovers and film fans to keep watch on the playhouse’s website and/or social media pages for future updates. Anyone who would like to get updates straight to their email inbox can join the playhouse email list via the website at highlandsplayhouse.org.
“The Highlands Playhouse, the Performing Arts Center and the Bascom Visual Arts Center are all vital institutions in our overall hospitality and cultural economy,” mayor Patrick Taylor said. “I urge patrons and supporters to continue investing in their programs since they have to modify their upcoming seasons in light of the COVID-19 crisis.”