Bainbridge Performing Arts has announced it is closing “in response to growing concerns around the COVID-19 risks posed by public gatherings.”

In a message sent via email and also posted to the nonprofit’s website Friday afternoon, BPA executive director Dominique Cantwell said that performances at BPA, as well as classes, rehearsals, and meetings, have been postponed indefinitely due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

“While we are disappointed to interrupt our regular schedule, we are entirely confident that this is the best way to help protect the most vulnerable among us and to ensure that access to our performances is available to everyone,” Cantwell wrote.

Performances and other operations at BPA “will be rescheduled when it is responsible to do so,” the announcement said.

The postponements include the planned Friday, March 13 opening of BPA performance of the Broadway musical “Fun Home,” as well as the Saturday, March 7 EDGE Improv performance and current Theatre School classes.

“Our team will be working hard in the coming days to connect directly with students and ticket holders. Refunds and exchanges will be available unconditionally for events that are disrupted,” BPA said in its announcement.

“Thank you for your patience as we navigate uncharted territory together. We’ll do our best to keep you informed, safe, and entertained in the weeks ahead!” Cantwell said in the announcement.