Jun 21, 2022 - Economy

Broadway adopts "mask optional" policy for July

People walk through the empty Broadway theater district one year after it was closed due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Broadway theater district. Photo: Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Broadway theaters in New York City will have a "mask optional" policy for July, the Broadway League announced Tuesday.

Driving the news: It's the latest COVID-19 related restriction to fall by the wayside amid declining case numbers in the city.

Details: Broadway said its mask policy would be reevaluated monthly "as we continue to monitor the science." Audience members are still encouraged to wear masks.

  • The policy for August will be announced in mid-July, the league said.

What they're saying: “We’re thrilled to welcome even more of our passionate fans back to Broadway in the exciting 22-23 season that has just begun," said Charlotte St. Martin, president of the Broadway League, in a statement.

Flashback: Broadway has had a number of restrictions since it reopened last summer amid the pandemic, including a proof of vaccination requirement until April 30 this year, the New York Times reports.

  • At the end of May, Broadway said it would require audiences to wear face masks through June 30 due to rising COVID-19 cases in New York City.
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