The Boston Lyric Opera has announced that it will present Terrence Blanchard’s “Champion” in concert form instead of in production.

The company noted that “following the cancellation of tomorrow’s (Wed, May 18) first performance, Boston Lyric Opera’s Fri @ 7:30PM and Sun @ 3PM performances of ‘Champion: An Opera in Jazz’ will continue as planned at the Emerson Cutler Majestic Theater. However, due to COVID disruptions during the rehearsal process over the past two weeks, BLO will present these performances concert-style on the production’s main set, with costumes.”

Ticketholders for May 18 are being offered opportunities to attend another performance or apply their ticket costs to performances next season. They can also receive a refund or donate the cost of their tickets to Boston Lyric Opera.

BLO also noted that it remains committed to the health and safety of its artists, audiences, and staff with robust COVID mitigation protocols recommended by a team of medical experts. As a result, all onsite BLO personnel are vaccinated, boosted, and have proof of a negative COVID test. Audience members will also be required to show proof of vaccination including booster(s) and must wear a mask at all times inside the theater.