Disney Theatrical nixes 'Lion King,' 'Mary Poppins'

Disney Theatrical Prods. has decided that safe is better than sorry when it comes to Hurricane Irene, canceling all weekend performances of both "The Lion King" and "Mary Poppins" on Broadway. Legiters sat up and took notice when it became clear that mass transit in Gotham would be shutdown at noon on Saturday in advance of the expected tempest. The New York Intl. Fringe Festival, after initially canceling all Fringe events skedded for Sunday, then also nixed Saturday shows as well when the noon start of the public transportation suspension was announced. Meteorologists predicted New York City would feel the worst effects of Irene late Saturday into Sunday. Disney cancellations scuttle three skedded perfs each for "Lion King" and "Poppins," a move that will take a significant bite out of each show's weekly gross. According to Disney, ticket refunds and exchanges will be handled by point-of-purchase orgs. For now, all other Broadway shows are set to play all skedded perfs. Contact Gordon Cox at gordon.cox@variety.com