The musical “Waitress,” which wrapped up its Broadway show weeks before the coronavirus pandemic closed theaters in March 2020, returned Thursday for limited programming with a new cast led by singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles.
Jewelle Blackman, who plays one of the three Moiras in “Hadestown,” said it felt overwhelming to be back at work.
“We have the opportunity to be the first to do it and give to all this audience what has been lost for so long. How grateful we are to be the first to be able to share our story again, “said Blackman.
Thursday’s performance will be followed by a street party in the heart of Manhattan’s theater district, starring the cast and band from the musical.
The public must be fully vaccinated and wear masks for the show
“I don’t know if any of us know exactly how he’s going to react, but I think it all comes out of joy,” Blackman said.
Audiences must be fully vaccinated and wear masks for the show, while actors and all backstage staff work under strict protocols designed to keep the coronavirus at bay. Shows can be presented at 100% capacity.
In August, “Pass Over” became the first Broadway play since the long shutdown. while rocker Bruce Springsteen’s one-man show “Springsteen on Broadway” began limited programming in June.
Shows can be presented at 100% capacity.
Broadway’s top three musicals, “Hamilton,” “The Lion King,” and “Wicked,” will return on September 14, while others will premiere during September and October.