Wichita Symphony scraps plans to perform remaining concerts in August
When the coronavirus pandemic hit, the Wichita Symphony had to postpone its four final concerts of the season scheduled for March, April and May — including a big show featuring actress and Broadway star Kristin Chenoweth.
The plan was to reschedule them all for a “SummerFest” series in August.
But now, that’s not happening, symphony CEO Don Reinhold said in an e-mail to patrons sent out on Friday, which is also posted on the symphony’s website.
“Out of concern for the safety and health of our patrons, musicians, and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, we regretfully cannot perform these concerts at this time and will attempt to program them in a future season,” he wrote.
The canceled shows include “Ravel & Brahms,” originally scheduled for March 14-15, “The Rose of Sonora,” originally scheduled for April 4-5, “Apollo 13 in Concert,” scheduled for April 18, and the Chenoweth show that was to happen on May 16.
The e-mail said that the box office would begin notifying ticket holders on Monday about their options for refunds, but Reinhold urged patrons to consider donating the price of their tickets.
“This is a critical time for the Symphony, and we deeply miss being able to perform for you,” he wrote. “Your generosity will help the Symphony recover costs related to the canceled concerts, continue operations, create online content during the pandemic, and prepare for the day when we emerge from these challenging times and perform for you again.”
Earlier this month, fellow Century II tenant Music Theatre Wichita also announced that, despite plans to reschedule its season, it would have to cancel until next year.
Reinhold said that he and his staff were not making decisions yet about the 2020-2021 season.
“We hope conditions improve by fall and allow us to bring you the inspiring live music that enriches you and our community,” he said.
Century II is still closed to the public, so those who want to discuss ticket options starting Monday may visit wichitasymphony.org or call 316-267-7658 and leave a voicemail.
This story was originally published May 29, 2020 at 1:27 PM.
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