What Broadway is Like During Covid

Broadway is back, but it comes with many restrictions and rules. In order to keep themselves, fellow audience members and theatre workers safe, there are precautions that have to be taken in order to enjoy a Broadway show now. So, what’s it actually like seeing a Broadway show now that theatre has returned? On Wednesday, October 13, I saw the 2 p.m. matinee of Hadestown, and am here to report what you have to do in order to see a Broadway show during Covid.

Doors opened 45 minutes before showtime, but now the pre-show check has the added step of checking vaccination proof. Since all theatres require full vaccination, security guards now have to check proof of vaccination and ID along with the usual bag check before you enter the theatre.

The vaccination check happens before anything else – so if you don’t have proper identification, security will not even let you enter the theatre.

Regardless of vaccination status, all patrons are required to wear masks. In fact, everyone in the theatre was wearing a mask, except, of course, the performers. Even band members whose instruments do not require use of their mouth were masked up.

Immediately prior to the beginning of the show, during the preshow announcement, an extra reminder to keep the mask up at all times was added, though brief removal was allowed to take sips of drinks. One usher stood in front of the stage holding signs telling audience members to keep their masks up. It did not seem to be a problem, however – at least from where I was sitting I never saw anyone take their mask off. Though the ushers were moving around to make sure nobody did anyway.

Honestly, once the show begins, you forget you’re wearing the mask. You get lost in the world of the show. And while you’re fully immersed, you don’t even notice the mask anymore.

At least for now, everyone is just so excited for Broadway to be back. I saw a Wednesday matinee, but the audience had maybe the most energy I’ve seen at a show. The cheering and clapping were insane throughout the entirety of the show. And the moment the show ended, the whole audience immediately leapt to their feet.

These rules and precautions will be in place for a while. Vaccinations and masks will be required at least through the end of the year, if not extending in 2022. But audiences don’t seem to mind. Everyone was happily compliant. And it seems Broadway has returned in full swing – that Wednesday matinee was completely sold out.

Also by Veronica Flesher:

The Tony Awards, The Industry and Inclusivity

A Day at the Broadway Flea Market

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