Safety takes spotlight
City’s performing arts groups will require negative coronavirus test or vaccination proof to see shows
Milwaukee’s largest performing arts organizations, including the Milwaukee Repertory Theater, Milwaukee Symphony and Marcus Performing Arts Center, will require proof of vaccination or a negative coronavirus test within 72 hours to attend their indoor performances this season.
That includes the big touring musical “Hamilton” as well as holiday staples “A Christmas Carol” and “The Nutcracker.”
The organizations jointly announced the policy in a statement released Wednesday by Mueller Communications. The policy will apply to all audience members 12 years and older. Signatories include:
● Black Arts MKE
● First Stage
● Florentine Opera
● Marcus Performing Arts Center
● Milwaukee Ballet
● Milwaukee Chamber Theatre
● Milwaukee Repertory Theater
● Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra
● Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra Present Music
● Skylight Music Theatre
“Our industry faced tremendous challenges and financial devastation over the past 18 months, and this precautionary step will give us the ability to stay in business and ensure live performances can continue safely throughout the city,” said Kendra Whitlock Ingram, MPAC president and CEO.
The signers note that their policy matches similar protocols that New York’s Broadway theaters and members of The League of Chicago Theaters have put in place.
Milwaukee’s Pabst Theater Group, which includes the Pabst and Riverside theaters, Turner Hall Ballroom and the Back Room at Colectivo,
“This precautionary step will give us the ability to stay in business.” Kendra Whitlock Ingram MPAC president and CEO
previously announced the same policy. Milwaukee Film also requires proof of vaccination or recent negative coronavirus test to attend screenings.
“Creating a unified safety policy for our organizations follows the guidance from local and national health experts, and more importantly, it means we’re doing what’s best for our audiences to help reduce their risk of illness while keeping the arts community healthy, safe and protected,” said Milwaukee Rep executive director Chad Bauman in the statement.
Mask policies will be set by each organization. Marcus Performing Arts Center will continue to require masks for all audience members. Audience members should contact individual groups for details. The groups will offer refunds for previously purchased tickets. Contact box offices for more.
“I am grateful our partners have made the tough decisions to protect our residents so we can all enjoy Milwaukee’s performing arts,” said Kirsten Johnson, Milwaukee’s health commissioner.