COVID-19 cases prompt cancellation of Civic Theatre's production of 'Little Women'

"Coming soon live theatre,” is seen on the marquee of the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, Wednesday, June 2, 2021 in Lafayette, Ind. The theatre has been closed since March 2020 and looks to reopen in July.
"Coming soon live theatre,” is seen on the marquee of the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette, Wednesday, June 2, 2021 in Lafayette, Ind. The theatre has been closed since March 2020 and looks to reopen in July.

LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Civic Theatre's production of "Little Women" has been cancelled due to reported COVID-19 cases among the show's production team.

Just two days before the show would premiere, a release from Civic Theatre confirmed that the show has been cancelled due to COVID-19.

"Due to reported COVID cases within our production team, we have made the difficult decision to cancel all show dates," the release said. "Our decision is made out of an abundance of caution to keep our volunteers, patrons, and staff safe. We appreciate your understanding."

This production of "Little Women," adapted by Louisa May Alcott's novel, was set to be directed by Civic Theatre's Jeffrey Dexter. Civic Youth Theatre also performed "Disney's Frozen Jr." this season from Dec. 3 - 12, with the remaining performances of that show also being cancelled for the same reason.

The release went on to state how important ticket sales are for the theatre to sustain operations, and that the donation of any tickets back to the theatre would be greatly appreciated.

An update on mask guidelines were also stated in this release.

"Masks are now mandatory to enter the lobby or theater," the release said. "Disposable masks will be available at our box office at no cost. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. Please note: Actors will not be masked during the productions."

Empty theatre seats face the front stage, Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette in Lafayette.
Empty theatre seats face the front stage, Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette in Lafayette.

Additional auditions coming up in Civic Theatre's schedule include for "The Mountaintop," which follows a fictional telling of Martin Luther King Jr.'s last night on Earth on the eve of his assassination. This play is set entirely in room 306 of the Lorraine Motel, and is seeking actors for its two roles who fit the following guidelines:

  • Black, male-identifying actor, able to play late 30s/early 40s age range, must be willing to make changes to appearance to fit MLK Jr.

  • Black, female-identifying actor, able to play 30/40s age range

Another upcoming audition at Civic Theatre is for "Flanagan's Wake." This interactive show takes a comedic take on and Irish wake. Civic Theatre is currently searching for actors to play the following roles:

  • Mickey Finn, County Sligo’s best-known writer and younger brother of Flanagan’s fiancé, Fiona Finn.

  • Brian Ballybunion, Flanagan’s best friend and drinking buddy since childhood, himself a weaver of tales.

  • Kathleen Mooney, town eccentric and pagan. Kooky, mystical, and capable of issuing curses, though harmless.

Those auditioning for any of Civic Theatre's shows must show proof of vaccination against COVID-19. To schedule an audition appointment, please contact Amelia Goins at amelia@lafayettecivic.org. Additional audition information can be found at www.lafayettecivic.org.

Margaret Christopherson is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. Email her at mtroup@jconline.com and follow her on Twitter @MargaretJC2

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: COVID-19 cases prompt cancellation of Civic Theatre's 'Little Women'