LA Opera has announced new health protocols to be followed by the company and audience as they ready to return to live performances.

First, the company has announced that it will be adopting a temporary vaccination-only policy for audiences, with masks being required as well. Patrons will be considered vaccinated after 14 days since their second dose of an FDA or WHO double-dose vaccine, or 14 days after the first dose of a similarly-approved single-dose vaccine. Vaccination status can be confirmed by displaying their physical or digital vaccination card along with government-issued ID; guests younger than 18 may display a school photo ID along with their vaccination card, and those under 12 must be with an adult who meets said requirements.

For those who are unvaccinated, such as young children or those with medical or religious considerations must provide proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of attendance, along with a government ID; Rapid or antigen tests will not be accepted.

The measures follow related building improvements such as the installation of a new air filtration system, enhanced cleaning protocols, and required vaccinations for all staff and artists. For ticketholders who would prefer not to attend in person, LA Opera will offer digital streaming of performances.

“We are thrilled to be back to live performance and are looking forward to welcoming back our community. Our streaming performance program will allow us to protect our audiences, artists and staff while providing access so that everyone has the ability to engage with this art form, a core value at LA Opera,” said Christopher Koelsch, the company’s Sebastian Paul and Marybelle Musco President and CEO. “We saw tremendous response to ‘Oedipus Rex’ in June, from both those who watched in person and online. Time and time again, we’ve seen how opera can heal and bring people together.”