Broadway was closed from March 2020-September 2021, one of the longest-lasting interruptions from normalcy we experienced in NYC during the pandemic.
Luckily most shows reopened this past fall, though with a strict mandate for audiences: proof of vaccination and mask-wearing to attend. And though Mayor Adams lifted the proof of vaccination requirement for most indoor businesses (restaurants, entertainment, fitness centers) back in March, Broadway as an industry decided to keep the vaccine requirement in place until April 30 and the mask requirement until June 30.
Now, since that is only a week away, the Broadway League has shared an updated announcement, saying that the owners and operators of all 41 Broadway theatres in NYC will adopt a “mask optional” policy for the month of July.
“Millions of people enjoyed the unique magic of Broadway by watching the 75th Tony Award Ceremony recently. Millions more have experienced Broadway LIVE in theatres in New York City and throughout the U.S., since we reopened last fall. We’re thrilled to welcome even more of our passionate fans back to Broadway in the exciting 22-23 season that has just begun,” a statement on their website from organization President Charlotte St. Martin said.
Although audience members are still encouraged to wear masks in theatres, they are no longer required. However, instead of being permanent, the League will reevaluate protocols and case numbers on a monthly basis to see if any changes to the policy need to be made. So, audience masking protocols for August and beyond will be announced in mid-July.
There are more than 30 shows on Broadway this summer, check them out here!