Overture Center to require masks, proof of vaccination or negative COVID test to attend shows

MADISON, Wis. — The Overture Center for the Arts is the latest Madison-area venue requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to attend a show.

The Overture Center says to offer the safest environment possible when performances return this September, they will require everyone who enters the building to wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth, be fully vaccinated (meaning their final dose must be administered at least 14 days before the event), and must show proof of vaccination. The proof can be the original vaccination card, a picture of the card, or a digital vaccination record.

Those who are not vaccinated will be asked to show results of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before the event, along with a photo ID.

“We understand these requirements may seem strict, but when we’re gathering hundreds or even thousands of people together, we want to do our part to reduce the risk and spread of COVID-19,” Overture Center for the Arts COO Jacquie Goetz said in a statement. “We want everyone who enters Overture to feel safe.”

The Overture Center says it has also mandated proof of vaccination for all of its staff and volunteers.

“We’ve been closed for almost 18 months, and we want to be cautious in how we bring our patrons, artists, employees, volunteers and community together again to avoid another shutdown,” Goetz said. “We’re committed to creating a safe environment, so the shows can go on.”

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Current ticket holders will be reminded of the new policies via e-mail this week, and again in pre-show e-mails.

Those who do not want to wear a mask and cannot show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test but already have tickets for shows through September 30 can get a refund by contacting the Overture Center’s ticket office at tickets@overture.org or by calling 608-258-4141.

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The venue also made a number of updates in order to make the experience as safe as possible, including:

• Installed touchless security systems at entrances
• Installed touchless credit card readers at the ticket office
• Installed touchless ticket scanning devices
• Installed touchless sinks and toilets in all bathrooms
• Provided hand sanitation stations throughout the building
• Increased fresh air intake throughout the building
• Increased routine cleaning and sanitation throughout the building
• Turned off all water fountains/bubblers.
• Reduced concessions to drinks only, to be consumed in the lobby only.

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