Hot on the heels of all Broadway theaters announcing proof of vaccination and mandatory masks for all performers, crew members and theater employees, the Chicago production Teatro ZinZanni today announced that proof of vaccination will be required beginning Aug. 4 for all guests over the age of 12.
The dinner-theater experience is currently in an open run in the intimate Spiegeltent ZaZou on the 14th floor of the Cambria Hotel at 32 W. Randolph.
The new mandate joins previously announced safety protocols which already included fully vaccinated cast, crew and staff, and an enhanced air filtration system.
“We believe the nationwide rise in the highly-transmissible Delta variant makes this measure necessary for the safety of our audiences, staff and performers. Given the unique nature of our intimate venue, social distancing is impossible, so vaccination presents our best option to continue operating safely,” said the show’s executive producer Stan Feig via statement.
Proof of vaccination, which must be presented at arrival/check-in, can be a CDC vaccination card or clear photocopy/cell phone photo of the card, showing that the individual has completed the required number of vaccine doses at least 14 days prior to show date. Children 12 years and under must wear a mask except when eating. Fully vaccinated patrons may wear a mask at their discretion. More information can be found here.
Since most Chicago theater companies are resuming in-person performances this fall or winter, fully COVID safety protocols have not yet been officially announced. Several companies, however, have already or soon will resume live, in-person performances.
The Goodman Theatre has announced mandatory masks, regardless of vaccination status, for all patrons and staff for its production of “School Girls; Or The African Mean Girls Play,” which begins in-person performances on July 30.
The Chicago Magic Lounge, which resumes productions Aug. 2, is also requiring that patrons have received all recommended doses of a COVID-19 vaccine to attend performances at its speakeasy/lounge venue.
