​Indiana Repertory Theatre announces mask, vaccine requirements for 2021-2022 Season

​Indiana Repertory Theatre announces mask, vaccine requirements for
2021-2022 Season
Patrons will need to show proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 PCR test starting October 6, 2021

Indianapolis, Ind.—In order to maintain a safe environment for all and stay true to its mission of producing live theatre, the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) will require patrons ages 12 and up to provide proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 PCR test in order to attend public performances beginning October 6, 2021. This policy is in addition to the current mask requirement for all patrons and staff regardless of vaccination status and age.
 
Patrons may show proof of full vaccination through the free Bindle app via smartphone, the physical vaccine card with a photo ID, or a digital photo of the vaccine card with a photo ID. The IRT will also accept proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test administered no more than 72 hours prior to the performance. Children ages 4 and older are allowed in the Theatre, and they must also have proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test, as well as wear masks.
 
In an effort to welcome families and share the joy of live theatre for this holiday family tradition, the only exception to this testing policy will be during the run of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Children 4 – 11 years of age are not required to obtain testing when accompanied by an adult who is fully vaccinated. Also, two performances of A Christmas Carol will be offered for fully vaccinated patrons only, regardless of age, on Sunday, December 12 at 6 pm and Tuesday, December 21 at 7:30 pm.
 
“When we planned our 2021-2022 Season, we had hoped to have fewer health and safety restrictions, but the recent surge in the number of COVID-19 cases has made us reconsider. In conjunction with our Board of Directors, we determined that requiring a vaccine for most patrons is the best choice for us to produce safely this season,” Managing Director Suzanne Sweeney said.  “We will continue to evaluate this policy as the season progresses.”
 
In addition to the mask and vaccination requirements, the IRT is implementing a number of other safety precautions around the Theatre. Bi-polar ionization has been added to the ventilation system, the HVAC system has been upgraded to MERV-13 filters, there will be continued and frequent sanitization of the space, and performances will have a smaller selection of concessions available. More information about the health and safety measures can be found at irtlive.com/faq.
 
“The safety of our artists, staff and audiences is our highest priority, and this policy will allow us to make our performances as safe as possible, while keeping them accessible for the greatest number of people,” Sweeney said. “With that, since our actors cannot perform while masked, it is essential that the rest of us do our part to keep them safe.”
 
With a commitment to the safety of all patrons, these decisions align the IRT with many other arts and live entertainment organizations in the city as the community works to create live entertainment after a year and a half of being virtual or shuttered. The IRT’s priority is patron, staff, and actor safety, and these temporary measures are to ensure that the IRT can continue its mission of producing high-quality, live theatre for the community and state.
 
To learn more about the upcoming in-person and virtual season, safety measures, and other frequently asked questions, please visit irtlive.com. For information regarding ticketing or virtual options, please contact the IRT Ticket Office at ticketoffice@irtlive.com or 317.635.5252.
 
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ABOUT THE IRT
Founded in 1971, the Indiana Repertory Theatre (IRT) is the largest professional not-for-profit theatre in the state and one of the leading regional theatres in the country. The mission of the Indiana Repertory Theatre is to produce top-quality, professional theatre and related activities, providing experiences that will engage, surprise, challenge, and entertain people throughout their lifetimes, helping us build a vital and vibrant community.