The Orange Theatre Company has made the "heartbreaking" decision to cancel the October production of Mamma Mia! due to the ongoing pandemic, marking the first year in its 44-year history it won't stage a show.
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In a statement released to members and ticketholders on Wednesday, Orange Theatre Company president Blake Thomas said ongoing government restrictions and guidelines made it impossible to go ahead with rehearsals, let alone the production itself.
"To say this decision was incredibly difficult would be an understatement, however the health and safety of our cast,creatives, crew and audience is paramount," Mr Thomas said.
"After lengthy discussions,including consultation with medical professionals and exploring all possible avenues, we are unable to continue the rehearsal process in away that was deemed to be 100 per cent safe."
Mr Thomas said the theatre group was working with the Orange Civic Theatre and rights holders with a plan to reschedule the event for 2021.
The event was first postponed in March, but has been pushed back yet again.
At this stage, tickets will be transferred to a new date as soon as it could be determined, with ticketholders to be informed of the change as soon as it's locked in.
A spokesperson for the Orange Civic Theatre said anyone unable to make rescheduled shows would be able to have their ticket refunded.
Call the Civic Theatre box office on 6393 8111 for more information.
Mr Thomas said it was the first year since 1976 - when the company was founded - not to put on a production, making 2020 "a sad year" for the theatre company and thanked supporters for sticking with them.
"Please stay safe and we look forward to sharing the magic of theatre with you all in the near future," Mr Thomas said.
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