Broadway drops masks mandate, face coverings will be optional in theaters starting in July
Masks will be optional in all 41 Broadway theaters starting on July 1.
On Tuesday, the Broadway League announced that theater owners and operators will adopt a "mask optional" policy for July, although it says audiences are still encouraged to wear face coverings.
Masks have been required in theaters since Broadway reopened last fall after an 18-month shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vaccine requirements were dropped by most theaters at the start of June.
"Millions ... 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," said Charlotte St. Martin, president of the Broadway League, the national trade association for the Broadway industry.
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Masking policies for August and beyond will be evaluated monthly "as we continue to monitor the science," the Broadway League statement said.
The next set of guidance is expected in mid-July.
The announcement was met with a vocal outcry on social media, with many pointing out that theater performances are still being canceled routinely due to COVID outbreaks, expressing concern for front of house workers and others or pledging not to attend shows after the mask mandate is dropped.
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This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Broadway mask mandate ends, 'optional' policy begins in July
