For the protection of audiences and theater workers, Theatre Philadelphia has developed and issued a new Audience COVID-19 Vaccine and Mask Policy for the start of the new season.
Over 30 area theatres have already joined Theatre Philadelphia in signing on to the new policy. The policy includes asking theater audiences to be fully vaccinated or provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within a certain time period ahead of show time. Audiences will also be required to wear masks, following the current policy of the City of Philadelphia for indoor theater performances where all audiences are not vaccinated.
Additionally, 12 area theaters have gone a step farther and will only allow patrons that are fully vaccinated. The list includes Philadelphia Theatre Company, The Wilma Theatre, Theatre Exile, 11th Hour Theatre Company, 1812 Productions, Curio Theatre Company, EgoPo Classic Theater, FringeArts, The Hum'n'bards Theatre Troupe, Temple Theaters and Theatre Ariel.
For proof of vaccine, Theatre Philadelphia has partnered with Bindle app to verify vaccine and test results ahead of performances. Full details on the policy, along with an updated list of theaters, can be found at www.theatrephiladelphia.org.
The testing exception is to include accommodations for children under 12, people with a medical condition, or individuals with closely held religious beliefs that prevent vaccination. If unable to be vaccinated, guests must provide proof of a COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance start time, or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within six hours of the performance start time. No home tests will be accepted.
Audience members with a valid ticket must show proof of vaccination along with photo ID at their time of entry into the venue. "Fully vaccinated" means the performance date must be at least 14 days after the second dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer, Moderna), or at least 14 days after a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson). Proof of vaccination may be presented as follows along with a valid ID: Vaccine Card, Electronic Copy, Photocopy, Photo, or Through the Bindle App. Philadelphia follows in the footsteps of the New York and Chicago theater sectors who have already implemented these practices.
For information about how to make a free Bindle account and sign-up for Theatre Philadelphia’s network on Bindle, visit: https://joinbindle.com/theatrephiladelphia/.
Join our readers whose generous donations are making it possible for you to read our news coverage. Help keep local journalism alive and our community strong. Donate today.
