Want to attend a Broadway production once they resume? You will have to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and wear a mask (except when eating or drinking), according to a report by The New York Times.
Broadway’s theater owners and operators announced the policy this week, just days before the first play in more than 16 months is set to start its run. Children under 12 years old, who are currently ineligible for the vaccine, must show proof of a negative COVID test in order to attend. The rules will be in place through at least October and apply to all 41 Broadway theaters.
The vaccination mandate will also apply to performers, backstage crew and theater staff. There will be limited exceptions beyond children, including “people with a medical condition or closely held religious belief that prevents vaccination.” These attendees will need proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test.
According to the report, Broadway producers had hoped to avoid requiring vaccinations—which was suggested by New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo—as it would turn away too many people at a time when the city and businesses are trying to rebound from the lack of tourism over the past year-plus, but the recent rise in transmission and the Delta variant has led them to enforcing the mandate.
The Metropolitan Opera and Carnegie Hall—opening in September and October, respectively—will also require vaccinations. With that said, they will ban children under 12. Masks at the Metropolitan Opera will be optional. Both Broadway and the Met are planning to operate at full capacity. The former has theaters that range in size from 600 to 1,900 seats, while the latter can seat 3,800.
For those who have already purchased tickets and are unwilling or unable to comply with the vaccine mandate, there are two likely options, according to The Times: Get a refund or exchange your tickets for the fall, when the policy may be ended.
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