NEWS: Broadway Announces New Mask and Vaccination Policy for Audiences

COVID-19 continues to affect the world in many ways.

©Disney

In light of the CDC’s new mask recommendations, as well as the rise of the COVID-19 delta variant, Disney World has adopted a new mask policy. And with much of the world resuming past activities, Broadway announced their new COVID-19 policies for shows just days before resuming performances after more than 16 months.

The New York Times reported today that Broadway will require all guests attending a performance to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and wear masks. Children who cannot be vaccinated at this time must provide a negative COVID test to attend Broadway shows, but Carnegie Hall and the Metropolitan Opera will bar children under 12 from attending performances. The new rules will apply to all 41 Broadway theaters until at least through October.

©Disney

Audiences must wear masks at all times except when eating or drinking, and the vaccine mandate also applies to theater staff, crew, and performers.

They will allow exceptions for people who are unable to be vaccinated for medical or religious reasons. Charlotte St. Martin, president of the Broadway League, stated, “We have said from Day 1 that we want our casts, our crews and our audiences to be safe, and we believe that this is a precaution to ensure that,” and employees will be tested for COVID-19 weekly.

©Disney Aladdin The Musical

The Broadway League plans to reassess these new policies in November, and people who have purchased tickets who cannot or will not comply can seek refunds or exchanges.

Keep checking DFB for breaking news for Disney World and beyond.