Shakespeare Theatre Hamstrung By Cyber Attack
MADISON, NJ - Last weekend a ransomware attack hit The Shakespeare Theatre's database and ticketing system forcing the cancellation of Wednesday's performance of "A Christmas Carol."
According to The Shakespeare Theatre's Artistic Director Bonnie J. Monte, the widespread attack hit several companies of various types and sizes. But there is good news for those who ordered tickets.
"First and foremost, let me assure you that your personal information and your credit card information has not been compromised in any way," Monte said. "Our IT professionals assure us that your information is encrypted, and not available to the attacker. Unfortunately, that means your data is not available to us either."
Monte said that leaves the theater with a show still in need of an audience.
"We are determined to carry on with our production of A Christmas Carol and we are determined to keep selling tickets for it. We are also determined to rebuild our now non-existent patron database," Monte said. "This is a huge undertaking and one that we cannot attempt without your help, patience, understanding and good will."
Monte is asking patrons take steps to ensure that their seats for A Christmas Carol are protected. First, those that have already reserved and/or purchased your tickets for A Christmas Carol, email SaveOurSeats@shakespearenj.org and share:
- Name
- Performance date
- Performance time (meaning matinee or evening)
- Number of tickets, and if possible, the seat locations
- Address
- Phone number
Patrons would then come to the theater with their tickets or confirmation email.
"Only by seating those who have already purchased will we be able to tell which seats are available for sale," Monte said.
Monte noted that all future tickets must be sold just prior to each performance and they will not be able to give a seat assignment until that moment. The Theatre also cannot process credit cards at the moment, but officials said they are working to restore that. they also said they are determined to overcome the adversity.
"We have a great season planned for you in 2020, which we are announcing during the run of A Christmas Carol. We will do everything we can to make your holiday visit here a good one and we will be rebuilding our database in every spare moment we have, in every way we can, in every effort to continue to serve you well," Monte said. "But this will be a Herculean task, and we ask that you lend us your kindness, your patience, your understanding, and your help in rebuilding the system by which we contact and stay connected with all of you. This is a very difficult time, and yet we will do everything in our power to retain your loyal patronage and admiration."
For all ticket inquiries, please contact the Box Office directly at BoxOffice@ShakespeareNJ.org or by phone at 973-408-5600.
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