New Bedford’s Zeiterion Theater to Require Vaccinations, Testing and Masks

As the Zeiterion Theatre gets ready to set course for its live, in-person fall schedule, the theater's executive director has announced new protocols set in place for guests and staff.

Beginning Wednesday, all guests and staff will be required to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID test within the last three days (PCR test) or within the past 24 hours (antigen).

In addition to the above requirements, guests ages 12 and up and theater staff, including children, will be required to wear masks at all times while not eating or drinking. Masks are expected to be worn regardless of someone's vaccination status.

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According to Executive Director Rosemary Gill, the move was in response to the "virulent and highly contagious nature of the Delta variant."

While COVID protocols got tighter within the theater itself, watch for a more flexible box office at the Zeiterion. Tickets to events will now be allowed to be transferrable to future Zeiterion events within the season. The new box office practice was put in place to "help discourage attendance by anyone with symptoms or potential exposure.

Additionally, the new level of flexibility at the box office was put in place to accommodate people who may need to care or someone who may be sick.

"The arts lift our spirits and bring us together--please join us in helping to make sure live, in person performances can resume uninterrupted," Gill said.

Shield guards have also been installed where guests and concession staff come into close contact.