On May 11, Disney announced that two of its biggest shows would once again be returning to Broadway, which had been dark since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lion King will be returning to the Minksoff Theatre on September 14 and Aladdin will be making its return to the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York on September 28.
However, if you were planning on seeing either one of these shows, then you need to make sure that you are vaccinated for COVID-19.
Broadway announced today that it would be requiring all Guests to provide proof of vaccination, as well as wear a mask at all times while indoors, except while actively eating or drinking. In a press release from The Broadway League, President Charlotte St. Martin stated:
“As vaccination has proven the most effective way to stay healthy and reduce transmission, I’m pleased that the theatre owners have decided to implement these collective safeguards at all our Broadway houses. A uniform policy across all New York City Broadway theatres makes it simple for our audiences and should give even more confidence to our guests about how seriously Broadway is taking audience safety.”
In order to attend a Broadway show, Guests will have to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, meaning that you must have received your second shot of the COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days prior to the show you are attending. For Guests who cannot receive the vaccination — such as children under 12, people with certain medical conditions, as well as those with strong beliefs that prevent vaccination — proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test must be shown instead.
This new vaccination requirement also applies to Guests wanting to see another musical production popular among Disney fans — Hamilton. Hamilton will be returning to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre in California on August 17 and will run through early January. The Pantages has let patrons know that, in order to enter the theater, Guests must show a picture ID, as well as either a physical vaccination card or the digital record that is available to California residents.
There has been no announcement made as to how long the proof of vaccination will remain in place. Broadway seemingly decided to make this move as COVID cases are seeing a dangerous upward trend with the new Delta variant. Please note, that if you plan to see The Lion King, Aladdin, and Hamilton at any time during their run, assume that vaccine proof will be required.
If you would like to purchase tickets to any of Disney’s incredible Broadway shows, you can do so by clicking here!
What do you think of Broadway now requiring proof of vaccination to attend a show? Let us know in the comments!