The renowned Bolshoi Theatre has been hit with 34 cases of COVID-19 following a live TV performance before an empty auditorium.

The program, titled "We Are Together," was a tribute to medical personnel and volunteers fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Bolshoi General Director Vladimir Urin said hundreds were involved in the production, and all were tested ahead of the show, RT reported.

"Without exception, all of the theatre's personnel, including security guards and engineers, were tested for coronavirus two days before the concert," Urin said.

Of those 34 who later tested positive, Urin said, "They didn't have a fever or clear signs of illness, but they were all suspended from work and sent to quarantine." He added, "There's no way that dozens of cases were identified at the concert itself."

The Daily Mail reported that the event appeared to have been organized and performed without proper social distancing. Though still photos of the event show only solo performances, two hosts do appear side-by-side.

• Italy Might Be Clear of New COVID-19 Cases by Mid-May
• Pompeo to Newsmax TV: China Reckoning Over Virus Lies Will Come Soon