peonies, help

I don't know if ti was the locusts or what, but my peonies are dying of branch by branch. Should I cut them to the ground? If I do, will they be big and full next year?

Dotsie, if they're dying it would be good to cut them back and next year they should regrow and be better than ever. Cut them now before the colder weather hits and keep them covered when the frost/snow comes.....

I've noticed all the dead branches on trees due to the cicadas. There were tons of cicadas hanging on my peonies. I think that's what it's from. I'm cutting them back and hoping they'll come back big and full next year. Thanks!