Broadway shows will soon be open again and when they do, those who wish to attend will need to show proof of vaccination and also wear masks. The Broadway League said this week that theatergoers will need to show proof of vaccination by an FDA or WHO authorized vaccine through at least the end of October.
Children who are under 12 or who are not yet eligible for any approved shots will be exempt. There will also be exemptions for those with medical conditions or religious beliefs that prevent vaccination. For those individuals, proof of a negative COVID-19 test will need to be shown. While in attendance all audience members will be required to wear masks except for when eating or drinking in designated locations.
“As vaccination has proven the most effective way to stay healthy and reduce transmission, I’m pleased that the theatre owners have decided to implement these collective safeguards at all our Broadway houses,” Broadway League President Charlotte St. Martin said in a statement.
Ticket holders will be notified of the new vaccination policy for performances through October 31st. The policy for performances starting on November 1st will be evaluated and make a decision for how to move forward based on what the science dictates at that time.
This policy also is being instituted on the west coast. The Pantages Theater in Los Angeles tweeted that theatergoers there will also be required to show proof of vaccination and also wear masks.
The updated mandates come as COVID-19 again surges across the United States and concern over the Delta variant continues to grow.
What do you think of this new mandate for theatergoers? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!