Irwin's Lamp Theatre postpones gala and 2 shows

The fear of the spread of the coronavirus has claimed another victim — the fundraising gala that The Lamp Theatre in Irwin had planned for Friday.

The gala, featuring a Roaring ’20s theme, may be rescheduled for sometime this summer, said John Gdula, president of the Lamp Theatre Corp. board which operates the theater.

“It’s a tough decision,” Gdula said.

The Lamp Theatre gala was scheduled for Stratigos Banquet Centre in North Huntingdon, at the same time a wedding reception was planned, Gudla said.

With the current emphasis on social distancing, postponing the gala would reduce the risk of transmitting the virus and allow more space for the wedding reception, if needed, he noted.

Former Allegheny County Coroner Dr. Cyril Wecht, a renowned forensic pathologist, will present his lectures as scheduled at 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday, Gdula said.

The only change in the format of the programs will be the elimination of a “meet-and-greet” with Wecht, Gdula said.

“We are following all the government regulations,” Gdula said. “We are trying to make sure to take measures to ensure the safety of our employees and volunteers.”

Two upcoming shows has been postponed — “Top of the World: A Carpenter’s Tribute” on March 21 and the Outlaws, scheduled for March 29.

“We’re working with the managers and the promoters,” trying to reschedule the shows, Gdula said.

As of now, two other upcoming shows, have not been postponed — Kix on March 28 and bluegrass performer Rhonda Vincent and The Rage, scheduled for April 3.

The Lamp also has four other shows scheduled for April, Gdula said. No decision has been made on those shows, as they discuss arrangements with the managers and promoters, Gdula said.