Broadway extended its vaccination and masking mandate through February 2022 and set new rules Monday for children and international visitors.
Children under the age of 12 must attend a Broadway show with an adult who is fully vaccinated and show proof of one dose of the vaccine at least 14 days before the performance or proof of a negative PCR or rapid COVID-19 test to enter the theater. As stated in the previous vaccination guidelines, individuals aged 12 and older will need to be fully vaccinated to attend a show.
International visitors must show proof of two doses of any combination of FDA or WHO- approved COVID-19 vaccines.
Broadway will require proof of vaccination for audience members, as well as mask-wearing except while eating or drinking through Feb. 28, 2022, the Broadway League said. The vaccination requirement also applies to cast and company members of the productions. The current policy was set to expire at the end of 2021.
As per the previous policy, there are exceptions to the vaccination requirements for those who are unable to be vaccinated due to a medical condition or religious beliefs.
On Monday, the U.S. lifted its travel ban on visitors from 33 countries. Individuals from those countries, which includes most of the European Union, the United Kingdom, China, Brazil and South Africa, can now enter the U.S. with proof of a full vaccination series.
And last week, the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention approved the use of the Pfizer vaccine in children aged 5 to 11. That age group was previously ineligible to receive the vaccine and had to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test to attend a Broadway show.
“We know that our commitment to the highest level of public health standards in our Broadway theatres provides a safer environment and importantly, helps our audiences feel more secure,” said Robert E Wankel, chairman and chief executive of the Shubert Organization. “We’re now delighted to welcome back audiences from around the world, and even more children and families to experience the magic of a live Broadway show as the holiday season approaches.”
