By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org
In response to the COVID-19 — more commonly called the coronavirus — several organizations today have announced closures. Remember, if you have an event you are planning to attend, double check by calling or visit the event’s website to confirm the event will be taking place.
Kent District Library
In a statement released today, KDL officials said that in the interest of mitigating the impact of the virus, all branches are closed to the public. Programs, outreach visits, bookmobile visits, and book sales are cancelled. KDL is planning to reopen all its branches when schools are scheduled to reopen on April 6.
The staff is explored alternative ways to continue providing service. For updates, visit the KDL.org/coronavrius and the KDL social media pages. The library does provides many digital services such as:
- Audiobooks, movies, music and more at kdl.org/downloads
- Magazines, databases and other online resources at kdl.org/research
- Online reading clubs: download the Beanstack application for your smartphones (search for “Beanstack” in your online app store).
For assistance or more information visit kdl.org or call 616-784-2007.
Grand Rapids Public Library
The Grand Rapids Public Library also has closed until further notice. For updates on the Grand Rapids Public Museum, visit grpl.org.
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre
The plan was for Grand Rapids Civic Theatre to continue performances but this morning the organization announced it was suspending the rest of the run of “Matilda: The Musical.”
Civic will be offering all patrons who have purchased tickets a voucher for a future show. Officials are asking that patrons not call the box office at this time. All tickets have been recorded and staff will be contacting patrons individually to assist with rain checks. Patrons also will be given the opportunity to donate the cost of their ticket back to the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre to help offset the company’s lost from the show. For pressing concerns about Grand Rapids Civic Theatre, call 616-222-6650.
Broadway Grand Rapids
Broadway Grand Rapids announced to patrons that due to the governor’s order to cancel or postpone gatherings of 250 persons or more, the organization has postpone the rest of the run for “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Patrons with tickets should hang on to those tickets as the BGR is hoping to bring the show back.
Performances of “Ecsape of Margaritaville,” which are May 26-31, are expected to go on as scheduled.
Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum has closed until further notice. Private events scheduled at the Pubic Museum that are under the 250 persons (guests and staff) threshold will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Earlier this week, the Museum had announced that its Free Day set for March 15 had been postponed.
While there has been no confirmed coronavirus cases connected to the Museum, officials have announced that staff been performing rigorous cleaning routines and there are plans to announce next steps soon.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park has closed temporarily. Classes will continue unless otherwise notified. However, anyone signed up for a class through April 12, 2020 may request a full refund. Private events happening at Meijer Gardens during this time will take place if guests and staff are under the 100-person threshold. Event hosts will be contacted by their event coordinator.
To kept up-to-date on Garden activities, visit meijergardens.org.
Grand Rapids Symphony
Yesterday, the Grand Rapids Symphony announced it has cancelled all performances for the next 30 days, until April 10.
Ticket inquiries and requests will be answered by phone on a limited basis. Tickets for cancelled concerts maybe exchanged for upcoming concerts later this season or for the 2020-2021 season. Exchanges may be mailed to:
Ticket Exchange
Grand Rapids Symphony
300 Ottawa Ave NW, Suite 100
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
LowellArts
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak and in support of the Governor’s and CDC’s request the LowellArts has decided to cancel/postpone any live events for the next 30 days (including tonight’s LaughFest event). The gallery will remain open with officials stating their plans for future events subject to the conditions at that time. For more information, visit lowellartsmi.org.
