Broadway Cancels Evening Shows Due to Blizzard

Hollywood Reporter

by Caitlin Huston

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Broadway has canceled most evening performances for Sunday, February 22, due to a severe blizzard forecasted to hit New York City with up to 24 inches of snow. Shows including *Oh, Mary!* and *Stranger Things: The First Shadow* were among those affected, while matinee performances starting before 3 p.m. ET will proceed as scheduled. This decision comes after Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in the region, with the National Weather Service issuing a Blizzard Warning from 1 p.m. ET Sunday to 6 p.m. ET Monday. Powerful wind gusts and snowfall rates of up to two inches per hour are expected, creating hazardous conditions for travel and attendance. The cancellation impacts major productions like *Chicago*, *The Book of Mormon*, *Wicked*, & Juliet, and *All Out: Comedy About Ambition*. Notably, *Operation Mincemeat* had initially planned to hold its final performances for original cast members but canceled its 7:30 p.m. ET show midday. Broadway’s decision to cancel across the board is rare, as it can result in significant financial losses—hundreds of thousands of dollars per show. This move reflects the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions and the prioritization of safety over potential revenue. This situation highlights the unique challenges Broadway faces during severe weather events, balancing audience access with cast and crew welfare. The decision to cancel this time contrasts with a previous incident in January, where shows remained open despite similar conditions, leading to criticism from those struggling to reach venues amid the snowstorm. While some productions are adapting by offering discounted tickets for remaining matinee seats—such as *Bug*’s $45 tickets—it underscores the unpredictable nature of weather-related disruptions in entertainment. For readers interested in entertainment, this story illustrates how external factors like natural disasters can impact even the most iconic venues and industries. The cancellations serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between artistic production and real-world challenges, while also showcasing creative solutions to engage audiences during tough circumstances.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/22/2026