CANFIELD, Ohio - One of the many victims of the coronavirus pandemic has been live concerts and performing arts events. It hasn't just happened at just major arenas and facilities, but local schools as well.

Wednesday night, the Canfield School Board heard from several people asking the board to consider bringing back live audience plays and concerts.

"We feel that denying the students who are in the arts the ability to perform in front of an audience is similar to removing the court from a basketball player, removing the field from a football and soccer player and removing the cement from a runner," said Dema Esper, President of the Choral Boosters.

Among the speakers was Dr. Manu Sethi who says he reached out to the CDC and Ohio Department of Health for guidance.

"Both representatives stated that as long as current Covid-19 guidelines are in place, there is no problem with having a live music concert from their perspective," Dr. Sethi said.

It was brought up that if schools can safely bring back sports, kids who perform in bands, choirs or in plays should also be allowed to do it in front of a live audience.

Dr. Sarrah Hein asked the board not to deny the students the joy that comes with performing on stage.

"These students only get to have six to eight plays throughout their whole high school career and they look forward to showcasing their talents," said Dr. Hein. "Kids who play sports will have 6 to 8 games every two weeks. I'm asking for support with one live musical, one Spring choir concert and one Spring band concert."

Anthony Scarmac, a Junior at Canfield High School, showed the board a petition that had 525 Canfield student signatures in favor of the return of live events.

"I have enjoyed so much of a bond with all the people that I create during my choir experiences and my musical experiences, I almost can connect them as a sports player," Scarmac said.

The group is asking for a response within 15 days to be able to pull off the three events this year.

The school board said they appreciated the passion the group showed and would take it under consideration.