The Arts are Back at Chapman University!
- Francesca Hill
- Mar 9, 2022
- 2 min read
Long gone are the early 2022 Covid restrictions of university events. March witnesses the resurgence of performing arts events at Chapman.
Chapman students can finally take the stage again, and this time, without a mask. While Chapman’s fine & performing arts departments and clubs worked to adapt in a Covid era, the removal of Chapman’s mask mandate last Thursday may signal a return to normalcy.
Chapman University is home to graphic, visual, and performing arts. Students explore these disciplines through academic departments, as well as university clubs and programs.
Covid Setbacks in Early 2022
Unfortunately, this year, Chapman’s special event, Chapman Celebrates, was canceled due to omicron. Originally scheduled February 11 -12, 2022, Chapman Celebrates usually features two nights of “dazzling entertainment from a cast of over 100 talented students from the College of Performing Arts" with a live orchestra in fully produced scenes from memorable Broadway shows.
“We had hoped to celebrate the closing of our 160th Anniversary year with a weekend full of events, but I feel that extra precautions are necessary as we work to manage the spread of COVID-19. Our top priority is maintaining an environment of in-person instruction.” – Chapman President Daniele Struppa
Curtain Call!
This past month has brought immense change. With the removal of the mask mandate and Chapman events free to occur, the arts can finally see the return of full capacity audiences.
Chapman has an extensive list of upcoming events, both within the College of Performing Arts, as well as within performing arts clubs.
Explore some upcoming Spring events!
For more details and events visit:
The Arts Outside of Chapman
While the arts may be thriving at Chapman again, it may take longer for things to return to normal on a national scale.
Despite Broadway’s September 2021 return after a two year shutdown, Omicron’s emergence brought another slew of challenges. Several plays and musicals were forced to permanently close due to Omicron, including Jagged Little Pill, Waitress, and Ain’t Too Proud.
Mrs. Doubtfire Producer Kevin McCollum hopes to reopen the show in mid March. He was previously forced to close the show in December within a week of opening. The entire cast and crew tested positive, resulting in an 11 day shut down, and a loss of $3 million.
Things were looking up when recent statistics from Broadway League showed box office receipts climbed 5% from the week of February 20 - February 27, grossing $23 million and over 92% of seats were filled. This week, however, attendance dipped back down to 78% with a $19.7 million gross.
What's Next for Showbiz?
From large-scale Broadway and the Lyric Opera to smaller improv and sketch comedy shows, it’s going to take time for sales to get back into the pre-pandemic groove. But will they get back into the pre-pandemic groove?
In the meantime, take advantage of cheaper tickets and find a show touring near you!
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