More Austin Venues Cancel, Postpone Events Amid Coronavirus

AUSTIN, TX — Amid heightened concern over the growing new coronavirus threat, officials at two prominent community focal points announced alterations to their regular schedules to mititigate potential spread of illness.

The move reflect ongoing efforts to practice "social distancing" recommended by health officials to lessen the chances of spreading the respiratory ailment now termed COVID-19 caused by a member of the coronavirus family that's a close cousin to the SARS and MERS viruses that have sparked outbreaks in the past.

On Thursday, officials at the Frank Erwin Center — home to UT-Austin sporting events and musical concerts — and at the Blanton Museum of Art revealed changes to their normal routines in light of the COVID-19 threat.

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UT-Austin Vice President and Atthletics Director Chris Del Conte on Thursday said all events at the Frank Erwin Center will be postponed amid the outbreak of illness that the World Health Organization on Wednesday deemed a global pandemic.

"For the health, safety and well-being of all patrons, performers and staff, we have decided to postpone upcoming events at the Erwin Center for the near future," Del Conte said. He added no decision has been made on which pre-planned events will resume. Ticket holders will be contacted directly for more details, he added.

The move comes one day after Del Conte announced all upcoming games staged at the Frank Erwin Center would be played without fans as another step to lessen illness spread.

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Also on Thursday, officials at the Blanton Museum of Art announced an outright cancellation of all programming through April.

"In consideration of our community and according to guidelines related to social distancing that The University of Texas at Austin and the City of Austin are following in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Blanton Museum has canceled all programming through Sunday, April 19, 2020, including performances, public tours, and talks," museum officials said in a prepared statement. "This includes the Blanton Block Party, the free day-to-night celebration of art and community, which draws thousands of multigenerational visitors that engage in high-touch, hands-on art making."

Museum officials addded that the museum would offer free admission to visitors on Saturday, March 28, thanks to support from 2020 Blanton Block Party sponsors. Blanton Museum officials added the site will remain open during its regular hours, with protocols outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in place.

For updates, Blanton Museum officials directed residents to visit their website.