Columbus performing-arts organizations to require proof of vaccinations starting Oct. 8
With the fall performance season underway, many Columbus performing-arts organizations will require all patrons, staff and volunteers to show proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to attend indoor events starting Oct. 8.
This move comes in response to the notable rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations within Greater Columbus.
Participating organizations include BalletMet, the Columbus Symphony, Chamber Music Columbus, Chamber Music Connection, Opera Columbus, Contemporary American Theatre Company (CATCO), Drexel Theatre, Jazz Arts Group, ProMusica Chamber Orchestra, Shadowbox Live, Short North Stage, Broadway in Columbus and all venue spaces under the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA) umbrella — Palace Theatre, Southern Theatre, Lincoln Theatre, Riffe Center theaters, King Arts Complex, Lincoln Theatre Association, and select performances at the Jeanne B. McCoy Center for the Arts.
Anyone entering an arts event or performance must show proof of full vaccination with an Astra Zeneca, J&J, Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or a negative COVID test with their valid ticket and corresponding government-issued ID. This policy was made to ensure local performance venues remain open as organizations go forward with their fall schedules.
"The reality is, we want to make sure our doors stay open and audiences are comfortable coming to our performances and they are healthy while they're here," CAPA President and CEO Chad Whittington said.
With no performances scheduled beyond Oct. 8, New Albany's Charleen & Charles Hinson Amphitheater and Jeanne B. McCoy Community Center for the Arts are excluded.
Press Southworth III, executive director of the Jazz Arts Group, said the collective decision was made after seeing how successfully other cities implemented the policy.
"We got feedback from different cities and organizations on how it worked out, and it seems to be a more universal position," Southworth III said. "So, we felt doing it would send the right message to our audience members."
The latest COVID-19 policy will coincide with the city's mask mandate, requiring the use of face coverings in indoor facilities at all times.
“We think it’s good that Columbus’ performing-arts community has united to keep our patrons safe and continue to produce live theater,” said Edward Carignan, Artistic Director of Short North Stage, a 10-year-old professional troupe that performs musicals and plays at the Garden Theater, 1187 N. High St.
Carignan said his company is receiving both positive and negative comments from theatergoers about the new policy, which Short North Stage will put into effect a bit earlier, starting with the Oct. 7 opening of its revival of the musical “Young Frankenstein.”
“Of course, you’re going to have reactions from both sides of the spectrum, but we have far more people telling us thank you for this policy and saying we’ll be coming to see the shows,” he said.
According to a press release, patrons age 11 and younger will not be required to provide proof of a negative test but will be required to wear masks. A number of exceptions will be in place and can be found on the individual organizations' websites.
Each organization will begin notifying ticketholders of specific policy details and requirements for entry. And while Whittington believes the majority of patrons will appreciate the new policy, he understands that some will be opposed.
"We're already seeing that certain people have a sense of relief that these measures will be in place. We expected that, and that's why we went with it," Whittington said.
"We also understand some people aren't going to feel it's necessary or they don't want to deal with it, and I understand that, too. Everybody is in a different place right now, but we got to make a good business and health decision for our patrons."
The arts organizations will continue assessing the effects of the ongoing pandemic and adjust safety requirements and procedures based on the guidance of public health officials.
For additional information, patrons are advised to check the website of the hosting organization for the event they plan to attend.