Broadway Extends Mask Mandate into 2022

Broadway has extended its mask mandate and vaccination requirements for all performances through February 28, 2022, the Broadway League announced on Monday, November 8. They have also added new rules for international theatregoers and children under 12 years old.

Currently, anyone attending a Broadway show who is 12 or older has to be fully vaccinated with a FDA or WHO authorized vaccine, and must also present a government-issued photo ID. For international guests wanting to see a Broadway show, they must have two doses of any “mix and match” combination of a FDA or WHO approved vaccine.

Guests under 12 must be accompanied by a fully vaccinated adult to enter the theatre and must show either proof of one dose of a FDA or WHO approved vaccine from at least 14 days before the performance date or a negative COVID-19 test (done within 72 hours for a PCR test or six hours for a rapid antigen test).

These regulations come in light of the United States allowing vaccinated international travelers and the FDA authorizing the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children ages five to 11. These rules are for audience members as well as front-of-house and backstage crew and offstage performers.

Broadway announced its mask mandate first in August, prior to reopening. Further guidelines are to be announced.

As Broadway relies heavily on tourist money, this is good news for the recuperating industry as the holiday season approaches – typically when Broadway shows are making the most money. Since Broadway reopened, the League has released select box office figures, which show that overall capacity has ranged from 77-85 percent of its full potential. By allowing vaccinated international guests, Broadway will hopefully continue to fully recover.

“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,” Chairmen and CEO of The Shubert organization Robert E Wankel said.

“Since reopening, Broadway has welcomed back over 1,000,000 attendees to theatres in New York City,” President of the Broadway League Charlotte St. Martin said in a release. “It’s thrilling to see the energy on our stages and in our audiences once again. We are excited to welcome families, children, and more international visitors as our borders reopen and tourism to New York recovers.”