Posted by Emily Exton on 02/21/2012 at 12:56 PM News

The Popdust Files: cory monteith, darren criss, glee, lea michele

Over the past two years, tickets to see television characters realized in large-scale venues have been one of the summer’s biggest live music tickets, as Glee has sold out arenas around the country and abroad. But in a potential sign that the apocalypse is nigh, the show’s stars will not be going on a summer tour in 2012. “We currently have no plans of touring the cast this summer,” a rep from 20th Century Fox confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter last week. Parents, you’re off the hook (for now). For those who prefer live renditions to the prime-time versions, producers are exploring the possibility of a benefit concert at The Hollywood Bowl this fall, with proceeds going to the Glee Give a Note education charity.

In its third season, the show has already spawned two successful tours, the most recent of which traveled across the U.S. as well as Canada, England and Ireland, grossing over $40 million. Last year’s Glee Live! In Concert! was also filmed for a 3D concert movie, which emphasized the show’s impact on its fans and their unbridled desires to see them live. While lucrative, it seems like the decision is based on the uncertainty of the show’s future—THR also notes that the series has yet to receive a fourth season pickup—and the need to give cast members time off and the opportunity to pursue other projects. Lea Michele, Chris Colfer and Darren Criss have all been involved in outside pursuits in the last year, on top of the show’s demanding filming and promotional schedule. With all the rumors surrounding the show and the futures of its characters, it’s likely best the performers don’t get burned out if Fox and creator Ryan Murphy do plan to keep them around in subsequent seasons. Still, do we know how to celebrate the warmer months without breaking into “Don’t Stop Believing” in a stadium parking lot? Luckily, that’s what the DVD is for.