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All performances and events at the Walton Arts Center have been suspended through April 5, officials announced Friday. The arts center lobby will also be closed.

“We have decided to take this unprecedented step to suspend public performances now because of safety concerns and in accordance with the declared state of emergency issued by local authorities,” said WAC CEO Peter Lane. “The health and safety of our patrons and community are our top priorities and we have not made this decision lightly.”

Lane said information on rescheduled dates will be forthcoming.

Anyone with tickets to shows will be contacted by a box office representative within 10 days to discuss their options. Patrons can choose to have their tickets refunded, they can receive a ticket credit for an upcoming show or they can donate the amount of their tickets to the center.

Tickets for events beyond April 5 will remain on sale.

For more information, call 479-443-5600.