Wildfire Impact on Theatre in L.A.

As wildfires continue to ravage the Greater Los Angeles area, the city is grappling with the worst fire disaster in its history. The devastating blazes have forced thousands to evacuate, destroyed countless structures, and left a significant mark on the city’s vibrant theatre scene.

Jeremy Jordan’s Rescheduled Concerts

Among the affected events are concerts by Jeremy Jordan and performances of the national tour of WICKED, highlighting the far-reaching impact of this natural disaster.

The fires, which began on 7 January, have destroyed thousands of structures and placed nearly 180,000 residents under evacuation orders. According to the Los Angeles fire chief, the damage is unprecedented, with landmarks such as the longtime Theatre Palisades also succumbing to the flames. The loss of this beloved venue is a stark reminder of how the arts are not immune to the forces of nature.

Broadway star Jeremy Jordan, known for his roles in NEWSIES and THE LAST FIVE YEARS, had planned two concerts at The Wallis Centre on 9 and 10 January. Due to the fires, these performances have been rescheduled for 21 and 22 January. Fans of Jordan’s portrayal of Jay Gatsby in the Broadway adaptation of THE GREAT GATSBY can rest assured that the new concert dates will not interfere with his run in the show. The Wallis box office is contacting ticket holders to assist with re-booking, ensuring a seamless transition for those eager to see Jordan’s live performance.

WICKED Performances Interrupted

The national tour of WICKED, currently captivating audiences at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre, has also felt the effects of the ongoing fires. Performances scheduled for 8 and 9 January were cancelled, with the 10 January show expected to proceed as planned. The Pantages Theatre’s social media channels are actively providing updates, and affected ticket holders have been contacted directly by the box office. While cancellations are a disappointment for fans, the safety of performers, staff, and patrons remains the top priority.

Theatre Community in Turmoil

The fires have not only disrupted scheduled performances but also claimed a cherished cultural institution. Theatre Palisades, a community theatre that has long been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles arts scene, has been destroyed. This loss underscores the broader impact of the fires on the creative community, as venues, artists, and audiences face the challenge of rebuilding and recovering.

Natural disasters like these remind us of the fragility of the arts and their dependence on physical spaces. For theatre lovers, the cancellations and closures serve as a call to appreciate the magic of live performance while recognising the need for resilience in the face of adversity. The affected productions and venues will undoubtedly inspire stories of perseverance and renewal, as the theatre community rallies together to rebuild.

What Lies Ahead

As Los Angeles continues to battle the wildfires, the priority remains on safety and recovery. The rescheduled WICKED and Jeremy Jordan performances offer a glimmer of hope and a reminder of the city’s enduring love for the arts. For ticket holders, staying updated via official channels is essential, as further changes may be necessary depending on the progression of the fires.

The Los Angeles theatre scene is no stranger to challenges, but the ongoing wildfires present an unprecedented test of resilience. As the community mourns the loss of spaces like Theatre Palisades, it also looks ahead with determination to rebuild and continue bringing the magic of live performance to audiences. For theatre enthusiasts worldwide, this moment serves as a poignant reminder of the power of art to unite, inspire, and endure.