Broadway takes few chances with superstorm coming

[October 29, 2012]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Broadway took the threat of the mammoth storm seriously, with theater owners canceling all Sunday evening and Monday shows long before a drop of rain fell in Times Square.

"The safety and security of theatergoers and employees is everyone's primary concern," said Charlotte St. Martin, executive director of The Broadway League.

Forecasts called for rain late Sunday or early Monday, and subway and public transportation service is to be halted Sunday evening, potentially stranding theatergoers. Refunds will be made available from the point of purchase.

Off-Broadway shows including "Stomp," "Bad Jews" and "Golden Child" were also canceled Sunday night. Most matinees on and off Broadway stayed open. Mondays are usually very light on Broadway, with most shows having that as their day off.

Some Broadway shows had no evening shows scheduled Sunday, including "Cyrano de Bergerac," "Chaplin," "Enemy of the People," "Once," "Jersey Boys" and "Nice Work If You Can Get It."

[Associated Press; By MARK KENNEDY]

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