The Lensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe will be implementing new COVID-19 vaccines and testing requirements later this month, ahead of opening its fall season, the center announced last week.
Beginning Aug. 24, The Lensic will be instating its new COVID-19 policy, Dianna Delling, the center's communications director, said in a KRQE news story published July 30.
Santa Fe Public School students attended a performance of "Circus Luminous" at The Lensic in November 2013.
| Facebook
"We will be requiring all patrons, staff members, artists and volunteers to show proof of vaccination or the negative results of a COVID test that was taken in the previous 72 hours in order to come into the theatre," Delling said.
The new policy is intended to make sure everyone at the center, where all staff and volunteers already are vaccinated, remains safe and healthy.
"There's so much unknown about the virus, as we all know," Delling said in the news story, adding that the "news is changing constantly."
"We want to avoid another shutdown at all costs," she said. "In our view, vaccines are what has allowed us to open our doors this fall."
The Lensic is a nonprofit, member-supported performing arts center on West San Francisco Street in downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Announcing the vaccine and testing requirements weeks before the fall season opening allows ticket purchasers a chance to plan ahead.
"As the fall performance season approaches, we remain committed to keeping patrons, artists, staff members, and volunteers safe and comfortable at The Lensic," the center said in a separate Facebook post.
The new requirements will be in addition to steps the center already has taken to do its part to stem the spread of COVID-19, including mask requirements, health self-checks, social distancing and strict enforcement. The Lensic already has a state-of-the-art ventilation system in which the auditorium's air is completely replaced by fresh, filtered air every 13 minutes. The Lensic also has a hand sanitation station and enhanced cleaning procedures.
The center's Ghost Light Sessions, a student Showcase, clips of past Lensic Presents performances and other features already are available at Lensic Online.
"As we return to gathering for live performances at The Lensic, we’re doing everything possible to keep our patrons, staff members, and performing artists healthy and comfortable," the center says on the COVID-19 safety page on its website, updated on Aug. 4. "We appreciate your help in following the safety guidelines as we work together to keep everyone safe."
Changes will be made "as needed throughout 2021, so please check this page regularly for updates," the page says.
Anyone who would like more information may read about The Lensic's new policy at its website.