The Broadway League has announced new COVID-19 safety protocols for all 41 Broadway houses: every one requires that audience members show proof of full vaccination with an FDA or WHO authorized vaccine and a photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. (Audiences ages 12 to 17 can use a school ID or birth certificate without a photo.) Masks are also required for all audiences inside Broadway theatres, except while actively eating or drinking. These rules will remain in effect until Saturday, April 30, 2022 and then be reevaluated based on COVID-19 numbers.
There is, of course, some fine print. Originally, children ages 5 to 11 were required to show proof of just one dose of vaccine, but as of January 29, 2022, they must show proof of full vaccination.
Children under 5, who are too young to be vaccinated, as well as people with medical conditions or closely held religious beliefs that prevent vaccination must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of showtime, or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within six hours of when the curtain rises.
Since these new vaccination requirements were instituted by the Mayor of New York City, they also apply to performance venues beyond Broadway. Some, such as the Irish Repertory Theatre, have even stricter rules and require all audiences to be fully vaccinated, no exceptions. The Metropolitan Opera, Playwrights Horizons, New York City Center, the Minetta Lane Theatre and The Public Theater require proof of a booster shot (for those who are eligible), and HERE Arts Center also asks for a negative COVID-19 test. While all theatres beyond Broadway require masks, some concert venues, such as Radio City Music Hall and Madison Square Garden, are mask optional for fully vaccinated audiences. Before buying tickets to any event, it's imperative to read the specific rules of the venue or production to avoid confusion or disappointment.
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