NEW YORK — The fifth wave of COVID-19 in the Big Apple has led to widespread use of face masks on Broadway.
The Broadway League announced the latest extension to its mask-wearing policy on Friday through June 30, 2022.
In a statement, the Broadway League said owners and operators of New York City’s 41 theaters will require masks for at least an additional month. The decision for July will be made next month, they said.
“We are thrilled that nearly a quarter of a million people attend Broadway shows weekly this exciting spring season. As always, the safety of our cast, crew and audience has been our top priority,” said Charlotte St. Martin, president of the Broadway League.
Last month, the league waived its industry-wide audience vaccination requirement, leaving it up to individual productions whether they require proof of COVID-19 vaccination. That policy ended on April 30.
Several shows, including “Macbeth,” “Plaza Suite” and “The Music Man,” have canceled performances in recent months after cast members tested positive for COVID-19.
In early March, New York City Mayor Eric Adams made wearing masks optional in schools and said closed places like restaurants, theaters and gyms were no longer required to check the status. of vaccination.
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