Performances of Syracuse Stage’s ‘How To Dance in Ohio’ Cut Short Due to COVID Cases in the Cast

Syracuse Stage announced that its groundbreaking, world-premiere production of “How to Dance in Ohio” will be cut short due to numerous COVID-19 cases in the company. Despite regular testing, stringent adherence to Actors Equity Association’s COVID protocols and an above-standard number of understudies in place, proceeding with performances has become impossible with the number of positive cases. The production was originally scheduled to play through Sunday, Oct. 9. Plans for future productions at locations outside of Syracuse will be announced at a later date.

Syracuse Stage will contact all ticketholders directly about the cancelation. Automatic refunds will be issued for the full value of tickets. Ticketholders will receive an email when the refund is processed. There is no need to contact the Box Office to receive a refund. If patrons have questions, they can contact the Box Office at 315.443.3275, Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Even with understudies and continual attempts by the production team to find a way forward, we have run out of viable options to proceed,” says Jill Anderson, managing director. “We are deeply sorry for the inconvenience and disappointment this news brings to the ‘Ohio’ team and patrons.”

Robert Hupp, artistic director, says that Stage intends to continue with live theater throughout the remainder of the season beginning this month with the Cold Read Festival of New Plays, Oct. 18-23.

“We are heartbroken by this turn of events that prevents us from welcoming patrons to our last week of performances for ‘How to Dance in Ohio,’” says Hupp. “We thank everyone who joined us for this world premiere, and we look forward to seeing what’s in store for this exceptional production that started right here in Syracuse.”