CLEVELAND — In response to the growing number of COVID-19 cases across Ohio and the nation, more than a dozen Northeast Ohio music clubs and theaters have joined together in announcing that proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test will be required for entry.
The venues banding together for the new policy are:
- The Agora
- Beachland Ballroom & Tavern
- Bop Stop
- The Foundry
- Grog Shop
- Happy Dog
- Jilly's Music Room
- Mahall's
- Music Box Supper Club
- Musica
- The Nightlight
- The Rialto Theatre
- Westside Bowl
- The Winchester
"Many national touring bands are now requiring that venues have a policy of only vaccinated staff members on site during their show and that patrons also prove they have been vaccinated or are COVID negative,” said Cindy Barber, Co-Owner of Beachland Ballroom & Tavern in a statement. “And some may still require masks, but this policy may help keep our schedules mostly intact," she added. “As Northeast Ohio venues, we all want to have the same base policy so our fans can understand and feel protected when they come out to support live music."
The new policy will be in full effect no later than Tuesday, September 7th. Patrons will be required to show proof of vaccination or proof of a negative test within 48 hours of entry at venues throughout Northeast Ohio. These restrictions will remain in place indefinitely and are subject to change with current public health conditions and as guidance is reevaluated.
The move by the group of Northeast Ohio venues follows the lead of event companies LiveNation and AEG, which announced requirements of a COVID-19 vaccination or negative test for concertgoers and event staff last week.
“I think it’s important that they do everything they can to remain open,” says Mikey Silas, a musician from Apostle Jones. “I can’t fault the venues for doing what they think is best and I definitely plan on supporting them in however they do.”
While musicians like Mikey Silas says he’s disappointed that this is where things are, he understands why the venues are scaling up the safety protocols.
Silas says, “It really does help make it an environment where everyone can have a good time and enjoy themselves.”
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