The Broadway production of “Aladdin” announced it will resume performances Thursday, a day after the cancellation of a performance due to COVID-19 cases in the company.
Since announcing the cases Wednesday, the production said it had conducted two more rounds of COVID-19 testing, with both rapid PCR and lab-based PCR tests, and had not found any new cases in the “Aladdin” cast. Disney Theatrical said Wednesday that breakthrough cases had been discovered in the company, leading to the cancellation of Wednesday evening’s show.
Those cases were identified through the production’s testing process and contained, Disney Theatrical said.
“Our extensive protocol system to test our employees and identify positive cases worked, and allowed us to act immediately to contain those cases. Given the thoroughness of our Covid protocols and a vaccinated workforce, we remain confident that the environment is safe for our guests, cast, crew and musicians,” the statement reads.
Starting the week of Sept. 13, the Broadway League and theatrical unions increased the frequency of required COVID-19 testing for workers on Broadway productions. Employees are now required to be tested at least twice a week and wear masks whenever possible backstage, according to an email sent to producers. Previous guidance required testing at least once a week.
The protocols, which are meant to help curb the spread of the delta variant, are currently in place through the first week of October and then are due to be re-evaluated.
Disney Theatrical said its cast members are undergoing PCR tests six times a week. This includes the “Aladdin” and “The Lion King” casts on Broadway, as well as “The Lion King” and “Frozen” touring productions.
All Broadway casts and crews are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Audience members must show proof of vaccination and wear masks during the performance. Children under the age of 12 are required to show proof of a negative PCR or antigen test.
“Aladdin” was the first Broadway production to announce a canceled performance due to COVID-19 cases since the industry resumed performances.
