More than 30 theaters across Philadelphia have announced that they will require audience members to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.
The announcement comes from the Theatre Philadelphia organization, and was cosigned by numerous theaters across the city. Many are prepare for their reopening for the 2021-2022 season, following pandemic-related shutdowns.
“I see this regional announcement as a big signal that theatre is back,” said Theatre Philadelphia executive director LaNeshe Miller-White in a press release. “We’re finally at the stage where we have season announcements and rehearsals happening. Our hope with these policies is that we can keep our sector’s doors open and produce in-person theater safely. Although still very cautiously optimistic, I am the most confident that our industry is on the upswing than I’ve been at any other point in the pandemic.”
Exceptions to the requirement for vaccinations include people with medical conditions, children under 12 and those with religious beliefs against vaccinations. However, any guest not vaccinated must show proof of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of a performance, or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within 6 hours of a performance. Home tests will not be accepted, and masks are still required for patrons.
Several of the city’s theaters, including Philadelphia Theatre Company, The Wilma Theatre, 11th Hour Theatre Company, 1812 Productions and FringeArts, have adopted more stringent rules, requiring full vaccinations for all guests.
The requirements are similar to those announced by New York City’s Broadway theaters in July. And several companies in the Harrisburg area, including Theatre Harrisburg, Gamut Theatre and Open Stage, have similarly announced their own vaccine requirements.
The full announcement, and a list of participating theaters, can be found on the Theatre Philadelphia website.