NJPAC In Newark Wants COVID Vaccine Or Test From Concertgoers

NEWARK, NJ — A beloved, nonprofit arts venue in North Jersey is preparing to reopen for indoor, socially distanced events this summer. But you’ll need proof of a COVID-19 vaccine or test to attend a show.

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) in Newark was among the many venues that closed during the coronavirus pandemic. Now it’s getting ready to reopen – but with some big changes.

“Over the past year, we’ve collaborated with medical professionals, invested in venue upgrades, and put new procedures in place to protect our guests, staff, volunteers and artists,” NJPAC states on its website.

“Our premium HVAC system has a MERV rating of 15, exceeding industry recommendations for virus filtration,” the nonprofit states. “And we use cleaning materials and processes recommended by the CDC.”

Here are some new things to expect if you want to visit NJPAC in the near future:

• Every guest must show a negative COVID-19 test (dated no more than three days before the show), OR a completed vaccination record (dated at least 14 days before the show)
• All guests must wear a mask inside the venue
• Touchless ticketing
• There will be a touchless temperature check right at the door
• There will be social distancing guidelines at queues, elevators, restrooms and kiosks

The theater recently reopened its box office, which can potentially help people recoup their money if a show is called off due to the coronavirus. According to its website, if a show is canceled because of the pandemic, tickets purchased directly through NJPAC will be refunded in full, including all fees, although the policy doesn’t apply to tickets purchased from third party sources or resellers.

A fee of $3.50 has been added to all tickets to offset the cost of COVID-19 upgrades and maintenance for performances taking place as of Sept. 1 or later, NJPAC states.

The nonprofit adds a disclaimer for anyone who plans to attend a concert or other event:

“Despite our best efforts, we cannot absolutely guarantee that you will not be exposed to COVID-19 while attending an event at NJPAC. Please be aware that the risk of such exposure exists in any public place or large gathering. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and those with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable to this disease. Please take this into consideration before buying tickets. By visiting NJPAC you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.”

As of Monday, several “socially distanced” events were listed on the NJPAC website. They included:

• June 26 – Vic Dibitetto
• June 26 – Richard Thompson
• July 10 – Mike Marino
• July 30 – Anthony Rodia

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