Princeton's McCarter Theatre Requires Proof Of COVID Vaccination

Princeton NJ

16 September, 2021

12:32 PM

Description

PRINCETON, NJ — With COVID-19's Delta variant causing an uptick in cases statewide, a local performing arts center is now requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test from guests to keep the audience and staff safe. The McCarter Theatre Center requires all audience members over the age of 12 to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination before entering the theatre. Exceptions will be made for children under 12 and for people with medical or religious reasons, theatre officials said. These guests however must show proof of a negative PCR test taken within 36 hours of the performance time or a negative antigen test taken with six hours of performance time. All guests regardless of vaccination status will be required to wear masks when inside the theatre building. "We're taking a layered approach to safety at McCarter by requiring vaccines and masks. It's the best way for us to responsibly welcome back our audiences, artists, and staff," Michael Rosenberg, Managing Director of McCarter Theatre, told Patch in an email statement. The theatre has said that those who do not comply with vaccination, masking, or COVID-19 testing requirements will not be allowed to attend performances and their ticket costs will be refunded. Theatre officials said they developed these policies after consulting with experts including labor and employment attorneys, the New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Task Force; the NJ Theatre Alliance; and the Theatre Communications Group. Many performing arts centers and concert halls across the country are now requiring proof of vaccination from guests. Three Jersey City theatres have also put in place protocols to limit the potential spread of the COVID-19 virus. Read More Here: These Jersey City Theaters Will Implement COVID Protocol In Princeton, McCarter Theatre officials said they have received widespread support for their policy. "Our patrons have been overwhelmingly supportive of the policy," Rosenberg said. "We saw a spike in sales the day we announced it and have received numerous thank you phone calls and emails." Thank you for reading. Have a correction or news tip? Email [email protected] Get breaking news alerts on your phone with our app. Download here. Sign up to get Patch emails so you don't miss out on local and statewide news.