The Broadway League announced Tuesday that Broadway theatres in New York City will make mask-wearing optional for July. This news comes as entertainment venues and theaters across the country continue to relax COVID-19 restrictions.
All 41 Broadway theatres will stop requiring audience members to wear masks for shows starting July 1. The Broadway League stated that mask wearing is encouraged but not required by staff.
Charlotte St. Martin, President of the Broadway League, stated that “Millions enjoyed Broadway’s unique magic by seeing the 75th Tony Award Ceremony.” Since last fall’s reopening, millions more have seen Broadway LIVE in New York City theatres and across the U.S. We are thrilled to welcome back even more passionate Broadway fans in the 22-23 season that just began.
Broadway theatres reopened in September 2021. Theatergoers had to comply with strict safety protocols. They were required to show proof of vaccination and wear masks when entering the theaters. Although some theatres were less positive than others, they did not change their vaccination policies. However, mask requirements remained in effect, even though they were removed from other venues and locations around the city.
According to the League, COVID-19 safety policies will be kept current on a month by month basis in theaters. A second update will be made mid-July.