WRITERS THEATRE SAFETY PROTOCOLS

As we prepare to operate at full capacity  this  season,  we  are  implementing  the following protocols developed in consultation with expert public health guidance and in alignment with Chicagoland area  performing arts organizations. We encourage you to confirm current protocols prior to your performance; all policies, including ticketing and attendance, are subject to change based on evolving guidance from the  Village of Glencoe, the State of  Illinois  and the CDC. As this guidance is rapidly evolving, so may our protocols.   

Questions? Call the box office at  847-242-6000  or  email  boxoffice@writerstheatre.org.  

Vaccinations

All  guests will need to be fully vaccinated with an  FDA authorized vaccine. “Fully vaccinated” means that the performance date must be at least 14 days after receiving the second dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine, or at least 14 days after a single-dose vaccine. This vaccine requirement will also apply to  Writers  Theatre artists and staff.

Proof of vaccination—displayed either on a smartphone or with a physical copy of the vaccination card—must be presented at time of entry into the theater.  Together with the proof of vaccination, all guests 18 years or older must also present a government-issued photo ID. Guests younger than 18 may use a government-issued photo ID or school photo ID.  

Exceptions will be made for guests who need reasonable accommodations due to a medical exception,  a sincerely held religious belief, or guests under 12 years old. In those cases, guests must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of the performance start time, or a negative COVID-19 antigen test taken within 6 hours of the performance start time.  Over-the-counter  “home” tests cannot be accepted. 

For your safety, as well as our artists and staff,  Writers  Theatre will not admit any guests who do not provide the documentation as required above. 

Face Coverings 

Regardless of vaccine status, patrons will be required to  wear face coverings that cover the nose and mouth at all times  and in all areas of  Writers  Theatre, including while seated during the performance. Patrons arriving without appropriate face coverings will be provided a disposable face mask. 

Distancing 

The protocols outlined in this plan allow  Writers  Theatre to safely operate at full audience capacity. As such, there will not be physical distancing between parties in the theater.  

HVAC  

One of the great benefits of our new theatre building is having a new, state-of-the-art HVAC system that accommodates more fresh air exchanges in every space than recommended  by the CDC. In addition to our already exceptional HVAC system, we have upgraded to  MERV 13  air  filters and bipolar ionizers to  further exceed CDC recommendations  for air quality.   

Sanitization & Surfaces 

In addition to enhanced cleaning procedures  during and  between every performance,  we have upgraded our restrooms with touchless paper towel and soap dispensers and have installed several touchless hand sanitizer stations throughout the public spaces of the building. 

Risk Assumption 

All patrons understand that there is a risk of exposure to COVID-19 in any public place where people are present. Those purchasing tickets and attending  Writers  Theatre productions voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.  

Ticket Delivery 

Tickets will be delivered electronically by email. You will self-scan your ticket at a stand  at the doors of the Nichols or Gillian Theatres. Ushers will be stationed at all doors for assistance. For patrons without email addresses, physical tickets will be available upon request at the box office for pick up during will call.  

Concessions 

Concessions  will be open beginning one hour before curtain and will close 10 minutes before curtain, as food and beverages will not be permitted inside the theatre spaces. Consuming concessions food and beverages will be allowed in approved spaces in the  Litowitz  Atrium. 

Exchange Policy 

Patrons who are not feeling well, are exhibiting any COVID-19 symptoms or have had or been exposed to COVID-19  within 14 days of their performance, should not come to  Writers  Theatre. If you are unable to attend a performance, you are encouraged to contact us to discuss flexible  exchange options.