Tony Bennett, Janet Jackson Still Scheduled to Perform in Couple Months at Foxwoods

Posted on: April 12, 2020, 05:00h. 

Last updated on: April 12, 2020, 12:11h.

Ed Silverstein @casinoorgedsilv Read More
Expertise: Legal, Tribal Gaming.

Connecticut’s Foxwoods Resort Casino remains closed by the coronavirus pandemic. But the tribal venue is still promoting big-name acts on Facebook who are scheduled to perform in June and July.

Janet Jackson Still On At Foxwoods
Superstar Janet Jackson is still scheduled to perform at Foxwoods this summer despite the coronavirus outbreak. (Image: Getty Images)

Among those highlighted is 93-year-old crooner Tony Bennett. His show is scheduled for June 6. Bennett’s performance was initially planned for March 13. Then it was rescheduled.

Pop icon Janet Jackson is reserved for July 17. And rapper Pitbull for July 24.

We’re closed for now, but these great shows must go on!” Foxwoods said on Facebook. “Get ahead of the crowd and purchase your tickets to any of our world-class entertainment acts coming to you through the end of the year.”

Looking ahead, still on the schedule are comedian and actor Jerry Seinfeld for July 18, singer Jackson Browne for June 21, and The Daily Show host Trevor Noah on June 26

The promotions suggest casino executives are hopeful the gaming property could soon open some of its operations, whether it be entertainment or gambling.

There are concerns among potential ticket purchasers. One visitor to the casino’s website, Jason Costello, asked if “full refunds” will be provided if shows are canceled.

In response, Cathy Jasion said she had tickets for John Fogerty.and his concert got canceled. “They were right on top of refunds!,” Jasion said.

And in response to Facebook’s concert announcements, Mona Brockett said, “I need normal.” That comment got three likes.

Connecticut Tribal Casinos Extend Closings

Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun were both closed last month to help curb the COVID-19 outbreak. Those closings were extended in recent days.

Neither Connecticut casino has ever closed before. Foxwoods has remained open since launching in 1992. Mohegan Sun similarly was always kept open since opening its doors in 1996.

After the shutdown, Foxwoods said it would not offer paid leave for its approximately 5,000 employees. Last month, John James, Foxwoods’ president and CEO, told The Day, “We are making business decisions based on a variety of factors, including the safety of our team members and guests, as well as the requirements and/or guidance of executive orders/requests from the Governor and other state leaders.”

“We recognize and respect our duty to bargain and intend to continue that obligation as things progress,” James added in the statement to The Day. “However, we also have to be nimble, as things develop rapidly.”

Connecticut’s Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun are among the many shuttered Native American gaming properties nationally which have donated multiple pallets of food to the needy, especially those who recently lost jobs because of the coronavirus outbreak. Most deliveries were made to food pantries last month for quick distribution, so perishable food remained fresh.

Las Vegas Casinos Cancel Shows

Across the US, well-known entertainers canceled or postponed shows because of the pandemic. One example of canceled big-name performances in Las Vegas include Shania Twain. The singer canceled all of her Las Vegas residency performances at the Zappos Theater through June 6.

Her Let’s Go! show is scheduled to resume in August, Billboard reported. Also, the Jonas Brothers have canceled their upcoming residency at Park MGM.

In addition, Rod Stewart canceled three shows at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace.