Little Tokyo-based East West Players,?? ??? ?? which previously announced that it was proceeding with its next play, “Assassins,” as scheduled, has reversed that decision.
On March 12, the day previews were to have started, Producing Artistic Director Snehal Desai said in a statement:
“Out of concern for the safety of our community, and in light of recommendations by Gov. Gavin Newsom, the city government of Los Angeles, and the California Department of Health regarding public gatherings, we are heartbroken to announce that we must hereby postpone the entire run of Sondheim’s ‘Assassins.’
“We must also postpone our 54th Anniversary Visionary Awards and Gala as well as our Theatre for Youth tour.
“Our staff will continue to monitor this rapidly evolving situation and are working to reschedule our public events for a later date. We remain incredibly proud of the hard work of our actors, artists, crew, and staff. However, the health and well-being of our community must come first.
“As we anticipate a large number of questions, we ask for your patience as we address the needs of all of our patrons through the following week. Our staff of six is currently inundated with messages and calls. When we have more information about ticketing details, we will contact all ticket-holders. We kindly ask that you wait for us to contact you …
“If you are a ticketed patron or subscriber, we will contact you by phone and email in the order of your show date to make arrangements.
“As a nonprofit theatre of color, East West Players has survived on the financial support of our most dedicated fans. Without the revenue from ticket sales or educational partners, we are depending on you to keep the company moving forward in these unprecedented circumstances. We need you now more than ever …
“We deeply appreciate your support as the news unfolds, and look forward to opening our doors once more to bring theatre to our community. In the meantime, please take care of yourself and your loved ones.”