As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads across the country, it’s creating concern for many of us in the theatre industry. For those of us who make our living by occupying the same space as others to share stories in real time, the coronavirus is posing a real threat to our lives and work.

Just yesterday, Jay Inslee, the governor of Washington state, officially banned gatherings of more than 250 people. Of course, that includes theatre performances. As a Seattle native myself, I’ve been curious how the coronavirus is affecting the city’s theatre industry. And luckily, I knew just who to call.

My best friend Jason Kappus is currently in tech rehearsals for the 5th Avenue Theatre’s production of Sister Act. Well, he was supposed to until Governor Inslee announced the ban on large gatherings. After the announcement, I spoke to Jason over the phone to ask him about how COVID-19 is affecting theatre artists - and if the show really can go on. Here’s our conversation…