Proctors to require vaccination proof at performances

You’ll need more than just a mask if you’re planning to take in a show at Proctors this fall. You’ll also need a COVID vaccination.

Proctors Collaborative is one of several arts venues that recently put a mask mandate in place. They announced Friday that they’ll also require proof of vaccination for all audience members over age 12 at seated theatrical performances through Nov. 15.

Ticket holders will need to show a photo ID at the door, along with their vaccination card or picture of it. They’ll also accept the Excelsior Pass.

Proctors Collaborative includes Proctors in Schenectady, Capital Repertory Theatre in Albany, and Universal Preservation Hall in Saratoga Springs

Some affected performances include “The Right Girl,” running Oct. 13 through Nov. 10 at Proctors, and “Ethel Waters: His Eye is On the Sparrow” at Capital Rep, which runs Aug. 20 through Sept. 26. The full Proctors Collaborative schedule is available on their website.

“The vaccination policy was already put in place for all staff earlier this summer and when Broadway recently extended its vaccination mandate beyond performers and backstage crew to include audiences, we decided to follow suit,” Proctors CEO Philip Morris said in a statement. “The rise in coronavirus infection rates in the Capital Region dictates enhanced safety measures as part of good public policy, and we do not want to risk our ability to fully restart.”

There are some exceptions. The vaccination policy does not apply to non-theatrical activities – such as meetings, educational classes, and private events. That includes the Dinosaurs in Motion exhibit at UPH, which is not a seated event.

Morris says ticket holders who are not vaccinated will be eligible for a refund.