A few days ago, the Actors’ Equity Association called on Walt Disney World to delay their reopening after the announcement that Disneyland was forced to delay their plans.
“If Disneyland has postponed, it is unclear how Walt Disney World can responsibly move toward reopening when coronavirus cases are much worse in Florida,” said Mary McColl, executive director of Actors’ Equity Association.
The Actors’ Equity Association said that they have made it clear to Disney that they want more testing to be done. The union also cites the rise in COVID-19 cases in the state, a number that has risen dramatically since they issued their statement calling for a postponement of reopening.
In a new statement to WFTV, Disney said that they would like to include live stage shows as they reopen their theme parks, but put blame on the Actors’ Equity Association for not agreeing to the terms of the recall agreement. Without an agreement, Disney can’t recall Cast Members who would perform the live stage shows.
As we reopen our theme parks, we would like to include live stage shows. We have heard from many cast members that they are eager to return; however, the Actors’ Equity Association has not agreed to the terms of the recall impacting our ability to invite these cast members back at this time. The health and well-being of our cast members and guests is an important priority for us, and our theme park reopening plan has been approved by county and state officials.
As for what entertainment will be offered when the theme parks reopen next month, Disney has announced a series of character cavalcades that will take place at all four theme parks. To learn more, check out our earlier post detailing what guests can expect.
As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com for the latest Disney Parks news and photos. We’ll continue to bring you news and photos, where possible, through the Disney Parks closure due to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and will resume our normal coverage once the parks reopen to guests on July 11th!
IF the performers are more than 6′ away on a stage, and all Disney World guests are wearing a mask, then the risk for coronavirus exposure is minimal, right? After all, the Cast Members are getting temperature checks daily prior to starting their shifts. Are they not getting free testing by Disney?