The bright lights on the Shea's marquee in the Theatre District were flashing Thursday night, but staffers were at the doors to tell customers "Hello, Dolly!" had been canceled by orders from Gov. Andrew Cuomo.Shea's President and CEO Michael Murphy was going around to restaurants to apologize for canceling "Dolly." The audience was packing Shea's and reservations would have packed the restaurants Thursday. Theatre District residents were an increasing share among the bar and restaurant customers.
Murphy said the closings are unfortunate.
"Carolee Carmello, people were in love with her. She's a dynamite Dolly. And, also tonight, we were to open "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" at Shea's 710 Theatre and we had to cancel tonight and the entire three-week run," he said.
What happens next isn't clear anywhere in the state. Bijou Grill owner Bea Militello was looking forward to a great night and week.
"Michael Murphy from Shea's came over and apologized to everyone that was in the restaurant and assured them they would get their money back or credit for their tickets, which I thought was wonderful of him to do that," Militello said.
The State Restaurant Association is asking Albany for help for workers and establishments, with people staying home.
“While we understand prioritizing the health and wellness of employees and patrons, this new cap will dramatically impact all restaurants across the state," said Melissa Fleischut, president and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association. "Restaurants in Westchester and New York City have already reached a tipping point and are barely keeping their doors open. The dramatic decline in business will only get worse, and there is a growing fear among owners about how they will survive this crisis without meaningful assistance. We are hoping that the governor and legislators understand the serious peril these eateries are facing and provide the help we will need to navigate this until the worst is behind us."
NYSRA - Cuomo Letter - 3.12.20 by WBFO on Scribd
