Nashville Radio: Grand Ole Opry To Air Without Audience

The circle remains unbroken this weekend as the Grand Ole Opry plans to continue its historic country music broadcast on WSM 650 AM without a live audience, reports The Tennessean.

Opry shows will play without a ticketed audience through April 4, per a news release from the organization. The decision comes as fear of spreading the novel coronavirus continues to postpone live entertainment globally.

"Throughout the Opry's history, various events have led Opry management to make difficult decisions about how to alter the show's format," a statement said.

"The Opry's first priority has always been the safety of our employees, guests and artists who have been key in keeping the show that made country music famous on the air every week for over 94 years."

In closing doors to an audience, the Opry returns to its original barn dance format of nearly 100 years ago, when broadcasters first aired from the National Life and Accident Insurance Co. building in downtown Nashville. Audiences can also listen online at opry.com.

Also, The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has closed its doors for the rest of the month, out of "an abundance of caution" relating to COVID-19.

The museum, as well as its neighboring facilities Hatch Show Print and the CMA Theater, and tours of RCA Studio B on Music Row, will remain closed through March 31.