COVID vaccine requirements at large venues across New York

Rochester, N.Y. — Gov. Kathy Hochul is pushing for vaccine requirements at large venues across New York.

In its first Broadway production in 18 months Rochester’s Auditorium Theatre will debut “Cats” next week.

“It’s fantastic,” said John Parkhurst, chief operating officer of the Rochester Broadway Theatre League. “It’s been an 18-month intermission for us on Broadway, and we’re ready to get back up and ready to start entertaining Rochester.”

On Wednesday, Gov. Hochul commended Buffalo leaders for making the decision to require vaccinations at Highmark Stadium and KeyBank Center.

“I’m asking every organization to follow this lead and require your fans to be vaccinated before they can attend. That’s how we’re going to deal with the fall vulnerability,” said Gov. Hochul.

Rochester’s Blue Cross Arena is managed by Pegula Sports and Entertainment. However, it is still unclear where policies stand there, despite an All Elite Wrestling event scheduled in two weeks.

For now, RBTL is keeping its policies the same by requiring masks for all guests regardless of vaccination status and eliminating concessions.

Parkhurst says the organization will continue to evaluate plans, but he adds they are glad to be back.

“Monday will be the final dress rehearsal, and then we’re off to eight performances,12 to 14 hour days. Nobody is complaining. We are all happy to be here,” said Parkhurst.

Geva Theatre Center and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra are requiring all guests to wear masks and show proof of vaccination.

Geva guests can also show proof of a negative COVID test, if unvaccinated.