Portland Ovations’ Commitment to the Wellbeing of Our Communities
Ovations Requires Full Vaccinations or a Negative Test, as well as Masks, for All Indoor Events
9/3/2021
Portland Ovations’ priority is the health and safety of our staff, artists, crews, volunteers, and audiences. Until further notice, Ovations requires all attendees at indoor performances and other Ovations indoor gatherings be fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus or submit a negative PCR test from within the previous 48 hours or a negative ‘Rapid Test’ from the previous 12 hours. Testing includes children under 12, who are not yet eligible to be vaccinated against Covid-19.
The same is expected of all Ovations staff, event personnel, volunteers, and artists. In addition, because of the virulent and highly contagious nature of the Delta variant, we require masks at all indoor events.
Proof of vaccination or a negative test as described above will be required before entering any Ovations indoor venue. In the near future, we will communicate how these requirements will be managed and what to expect when you join us for live performances this fall. We can’t wait to see you!
We recognize getting a COVID-19 vaccination, while free, still takes time and can cost people money in lost wages for appointments and/or possible recovery. We respectfully implore Maine businesses to support their employee’s quest for vaccinations. As a Maine non-profit cultural organization, we recognize the strain on budgets and staffing this pandemic is having on all sectors. We truly are in this together.
To further support our community’s well-being and in recognition of the many uncertainties due to the pandemic, Ovations revised its ticket exchange policy. All tickets are now exchangeable for another Portland Ovations performance within the season. Our intention is that greater flexibility will help further discourage attendance at an Ovations presentation by anyone with symptoms or potential exposure. We also want to support those who are providing care to someone who is ill, by allowing easier exchanges.
If you or someone you love needs information on how to attain a COVID-19 vaccination, information can be found here or you can call 1-888-445-4111.
The arts lift our spirits, entertain, and bring us together – please join us in helping make sure live, in-person performances can resume uninterrupted.
See you soon and be well,
The Staff & Board of Portland Ovations
HEALTH & SAFETY PROTOCOLS
For all Portland Ovations events
All protocols subject to change prior to the event
ENTERING THE VENUE
- Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test must be presented in person prior to entering the venue.
- Once checked, you will be allowed to proceed to the box office, pick up your ticket and be seated.
- If you already have your ticket, you still need to present your vaccination proof, or negative test before entry into the building.
- It is necessary to also show a legal photo identification such as a driver’s license, passport, or other government issued ID along with your vaccination proof, or test result.
ACCEPTED PROOF OF VACCINATION
- The actual card that was issued and marked when you were vaccinated.
- A photograph of this card that has been printed, or can be shown on your personal electronic device (mobile phone).
ACCEPTED PROOF OF NEGATIVE TEST
- If you choose to present the results of a Rapid Antigen test (BINAX NOW), or Rapid Diagnostic test (ID NOW) please present the hard copy of those results that you were issued.
- Please be sure that the name, date, and time are plainly visible.
- We are accepting Rapid Antigen tests results issued to you within 12 hours of your entry to the theater, and Rapid Diagnostic tests (ID NOW) issued to you within 24 hours of entering the theater.
MASKS REQUIRED FOR ALL INDOOR EVENTS
- Recommended masks by US CDC
- While indoors at Merrill, unless you have written medical exemption, please wear a mask that has been recommended by the United States CDC.
- This mask should have two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric, completely cover your nose and mouth, fit snugly against the sides of your face and not have gaps.
- Having nose wire will prevent air from leaking out the top of the mask.
- Please ensure your child’s mask fits properly.
- If you have a beard, use a mask fitter or brace.
MERRILL AUDITORIUM PROTOCOLS
- Merrill Auditorium cleaning and sanitation protocols follow all Federal CDC Guidelines.
- Enhanced daily cleaning procedures include frequent wipe-down of common areas and high-touch surfaces such as railings, door handles, countertops, restroom fixtures and the elevator.
- All lobbies, restrooms, seating areas, and backstage rooms are cleaned prior to, in between, and following each performance or event.
- Hand sanitizing stations are located throughout the theater.
- Read all Merrill Auditorium Health & Safety Protocols.
