SEATTLE: Seattle Repertory Theatre has announced the postponement of its 2020-21 season, setting no timeframe for a return to the stage.

“We fought against this for so long,” said Seattle Rep artistic director Braden Abraham in a statement, “but it’s clear that we can no longer proceed with the season as scheduled. The challenges of producing safely and responsibly in this environment are constantly evolving, and we must evolve with them. Over the last few months, we’ve drawn up alternative detailed producing scenarios. We’ll continue to explore these and all of the options available to us, with the hope that our stages won’t be dark for long. If the situation changes later this winter or next spring, we are prepared to resume performances as soon as it is safe to do so. Meanwhile, our work continues offstage and online, where we remain committed to our vision of ‘Theatre at the Heart of Public Life.'”

Previously planned 2020-21 productions were The Winter’s Tale, What the Constitution Means to Me, An Iliad, Bruce, Emma, XY, Ghosts, Poor Yella Rednecks: Vietgone Part 2, and Fairview. Seattle Rep has not announce plans for rescheduling these productions.

In the meantime, Seattle Rep is investing in expanding its arts engagement, new works, and Public Works initiatives in the digital realm. Arts engagement will continue, featuring a mix of online and socially distanced programs for adults and youths. Additionally virtual classes for middle and high school youth will continue, featuring acting workshops and theatre classes, and the August Wilson Monologue Competition will continue online and in-person throughout the year. Also planned is a play reading group and a pilot program based in Theatre of the Oppressed.

Seattle Rep’s new works programming will expand with readings and workshops taking place online under the theatre’s new play program, the Other Season. The theatre’s Public Works program will continue to partner with organizations through virtual classes, a pen pal program, and weekly self-care artist hours.

“While the pandemic has cast us all into uncharted territory,” said Abraham, “it has also inspired innovation and collaboration. We are finding new ways to collaborate with artists to bring meaningful artistic experiences to our community, and that will remain our mission as we work to welcome the public back through our doors.”