Shakespeare Dallas has canceled its 2020 summer season of Shakespeare in the Park amid concerns over the coronavirus outbreak.

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This is the first time the organization has had to cancel Shakespeare in the Park since its founding nearly 50 years ago, according to a news release.

“The absence of our summer season will have a great impact on many,” said Raphael Parry, the executive and artistic director of Shakespeare Dallas. “Our seasonal team of more than 80 artists and technicians will not have employment and will deeply miss the opportunity to share our creative work with our audiences.”

Performances of “Much Ado About Nothing” and “The Merchant of Venice” were scheduled to begin June 10 and run through July 19 at the Samuell-Grand Amphitheater in East Dallas.

Instead, shows will resume in September. Shakespeare Dallas will launch its 50th season with the classic “Romeo and Juliet” at Samuell-Grand and The Sound at Cypress Waters in North Dallas. Dates and tickets for both venues will be available soon.

Like many arts organizations, Shakespeare Dallas has experienced a decrease in financial support during the coronavirus pandemic and anticipates a loss in ticket revenue. Neighbors can help support the organization here.

“We are committed to preserving the jobs of our full-time, year-round staff and ensuring Shakespeare Dallas comes back stronger than ever in the fall,” Parry said.