EP Updated COVID Policy
/For almost 2 years, if there’s anything we know for certain, it’s that nothing is certain. Health and safety protocols are constantly changing and evolving in regards to how businesses and organizations address COVID-19. At the Evergreen Playhouse, our first commitment is to the health and safety of our actors, our crew, our volunteers, and our patrons. We have readdressed our current COVID-19 policy in light of current variant trends and local, regional, and national health recommendations. We anticipate that our protocols will continue to evolve throughout the season.
The Evergreen Playhouse will continue to require proof of vaccination with photo ID for patrons 5 and up for entry to all performances, rehearsals, and work days. Masks will also be required for audiences inside the theatre (regardless of local or state mandates), except while actively eating or drinking.
The EP has been working on implementing strategies (many of which were already in place for staff and performers) to minimize the risk of COVID-19. Here is an overview of how we will be operating:
All patrons 5 and up will need to provide proof of vaccination (this can be their physical vaccination card or photocopy of their card, a photo of their card on their smart phone, or MyIR/WAVerify record)
Masks will be required at all times for all ages (2+) unless actively eating or drinking, regardless of local/state mandates.
Masks must be worn covering the mouth and nose
This policy has been revised and updated based on the rapid rise of the COVID-19 variants, feedback from patrons, actors, and the EP Board of Directors. These guidelines will also be utilized for EP’s staff (including backstage crew and front of house staff), artists and performers, and volunteers.
Under this policy, guests will need to be fully vaccinated with a CDC/WHO authorized vaccine in order to attend a performance and must show proof of vaccination at their time of entry into the theatre with their valid ticket. “Fully vaccinated” means the performance date must be at least 14 days after the second dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine, or at least 14 days after a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine. Boosters are not required (but strongly recommended).
AUDIENCES/VISITORS
PROOF OF VACCINATION
The following are acceptable as proof of full vaccination:
Vaccination card (which includes name of person vaccinated, type of vaccine provided and date last dose administered) OR
a photocopy of a vaccination card as a separate document OR
a clear photo of vaccination card shown on a smart device (phone, etc.) OR
documentation of vaccination from a healthcare provider electronic health record or state Immunization Information System record.
Matching photo ID required at the door
Self-reported vaccination records that are not verified by a healthcare provider or photos of cards on electronic devices cannot be accepted.
If for some reason you do not have the proper documentation available when you arrive at the theatre, you will be offered a voucher for a future performance.
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS AND PROTECTION
To help ensure the safety of audiences, masks are required for all audience members. EP volunteers will also be required to wear a mask.
We will be following all Lewis County Health Department guidelines on capacity
Additional hand sanitizing stations will be located throughout the building
Additional signage recommending hand sanitizing and hand washing will be posted
Prior to audience arrival:
Thorough wiping and disinfecting of commonly touched surfaces and fixtures
Restrooms and lobby cleaned and disinfected
Prior to and after intermission:
Thorough wiping and disinfecting of commonly touched surfaces and fixtures
Restrooms and lobby cleaned and disinfected
Following audience departure:
Thorough wiping and disinfecting of commonly touched surfaces and fixtures
Thorough sweeping, mopping and vacuuming of the theatre
Thorough disinfecting throughout seating areas
PERFORMERS
Because we recognize that onstage and backstage areas have limited space, EP is primarily placing a very strong emphasis on cleanliness and hygiene throughout the rehearsal and performance process. Our minimum guidelines for cast and crew will involve:
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are required for all performers eligible for a COVID vaccine. All actors that audition for EP productions will be asked for their vaccination status on audition forms. All vaccine-eligible people who are cast for EP productions must show proof of vaccination prior to the start of rehearsal. This is to protect all others involved in the productions.
Masks
All cast members will be required to be masked via face masks or shields during all rehearsals when not actively performing. Masks and face shields can be provided on request by the EP. All actors will be required to wear masks backstage when they are not performing. Performers may wear clear masks on stage while performing if desired or if director requests.
Testing
Temperature checks will be conducted before every rehearsal and cast or crew will be sent home (even on a performance night) if their temperature is above 100.4. Screening questions will also be asked at every rehearsal and performance. All actors and backstage crew will be issued a rapid test weekly before rehearsing or performing. If a positive test is displayed, that person will be sent home immediately and they will follow current CDC guidelines for reentry.
Inside the Evergreen Playhouse
Masks must be worn at all times, unless actors are actively performing. Crew members will wear masks during all performances. Cast and crew members are encouraged to bring and use hand sanitizer, which will also be provided by the EP throughout backstage.
Cast and crew members will maintain acceptable social distancing whenever possible.
No visitors will be allowed backstage.
The Evergreen Playhouse will continue to update our COVID protocols and policies as needed in the future to ensure the health and safety of all involved with the EP. If you have any questions about the EP’s COVID protocols, please contact us.
FAQs
Q. Are face coverings or masks required?
A. Yes, appropriate face masks covering the nose and mouth are required to be worn by everyone entering and exiting the facility.
Q. I can’t wear a face mask, what are my options?
A. Face masks are required to enter the facility and at all times inside the venue. If you are unable or unwilling to wear an appropriate face mask covering your nose and mouth, we cannot allow you indoor seating at this time. Our guidelines may change, so please check back with us. In the meantime, we look forward to welcoming you back to the theater when face masks are no longer a necessity for large group gatherings.
Q. What if I cannot get the vaccine?
A. Please contact us.
Q. I don’t have proof of vaccination, can I get a refund?
A. Yes, ticket holders that are unwilling or unable to comply with the above COVID-19 protocols have until two weeks before their event to request a refund. No refunds will be given if there is no timely communication prior to the event.
Q. I lost my card; how do I get a replacement?
A. For misplaced cards, contact your vaccine provider or the State Department Immunization Information System.
Q. What if I buy tickets and the performance gets cancelled?
A. We want our patrons to feel confident about their ticket purchases. If a show is rescheduled, your tickets will automatically transfer to the new date. Can’t attend the new date? Call the Box Office and we will assist you with your flexible options. If a show is cancelled altogether, we will offer a full refund of the ticket price.
Q. What if I buy tickets and am sick or in contact with someone sick with COVID?
A. We want all our patrons to feel confident in their ticket purchases. In the event you are exposed to or contract COVID-19, you may:
Gift your tickets to a friend, OR
Donate your tickets back to the Playhouse, OR
Exchange your tickets for another event in the future OR
Request a refund of the ticket price.
Q. How are you cleaning the theater between events?
A. After each event our team will sanitize the seating area, restrooms, and all other high-traffic and high-touch areas to prepare for the next patrons to safely utilize the building.