9-6-2021
In addition to following CDC and Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines, TWS is currently following these practices.
Vaccination and Mask Policy for TWS/CTWS (board approved 9-2-2021)
Beginning September 7, 2021, TWS and CTWS will require proof of vaccinations for audience members, performers, volunteers, staff and contractors. There are some exceptions below. Masks will also be required for everyone entering the building.
These policies will be reviewed and amended as needed.
Audiences
- Properly fitted masks required at all times regardless of vaccination status.
- Proof of vaccination required to enter the building.
- For those unable to be vaccinated, we require 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.
- Those unable to provide this proof will not be allowed to enter the building and will be offered the choice of an exchange or a refund.
- Verification of vaccine/test status will be performed at the door prior to building entry by TWS staff.
Performers (TWS)
- Proof of vaccination required to perform in the building.
- For those unable to be vaccinated, we require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to beginning rehearsals or class and proof of weekly testing.
- Properly fitted masks required regardless of vaccination status except when performing onstage. “Masks off” date will be determined by the executive artistic director in consultation with the TWS Safety Chair.
- This proof must be provided to and confirmed by the TWS executive artistic director.
Students (CTWS) – in classes and in shows
- Properly fitted masks required regardless of vaccination status.
- Parent must fill out health screening form pledging to not send child to activity if they are sick or symptomatic or submit a daily health certification via the Ola app or similar.
- Health screen documentation must be provided to and confirmed by the CTWS children’s director.
Volunteers
- Proof of vaccination required to work in the building.
- Properly fitted masks required regardless of vaccination status except when working without other individuals in the room.
- For those unable to be vaccinated, we require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to beginning volunteer work and proof of weekly testing.
- This proof must be provided to and confirmed by the appropriate crew chair or EAD or CD.
Staff and Contractors
- Proof of vaccination required to work in the building.
- For those unable to be vaccinated, we require proof of a negative COVID-19 test prior to beginning work and proof of weekly testing.
- Properly fitted masks required regardless of vaccination status except when working with no one else in the room.
- This proof must be provided to and confirmed by the TWS business manager.
Other
- “Fully vaccinated” means at least 14 days after the second dose of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine, or at least 14 days after a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine.
- Only acceptable vaccination card is a CDC card (physical or image)
- Home tests not accepted.
- Employees requiring testing may take up to 90 minutes paid time during work hours to get tested.
If you have specific questions, please email ead@theatrewesternsprings.com. Thank you.
COVID-19 Safety Protocols for CTWS addendum (9-10-2021)
- Properly fitting masks covering the mouth/nose will be required at all times (including performances) for students, staff, volunteers, and audiences.
- Students/staff/volunteers will be required to certify a health screener prior to class/rehearsal/performance.
- Students/staff/volunteers must stay home if symptomatic or sick.
- Curbside pickup and drop off when possible.
- Parents will not be allowed to wait in the building.
- In the event of a positive COVID case for a show, rehearsals will move online for the appropriate quarantine time period and/or the performance will pivot to streaming.
- Finally, in light of the last year, we are "resetting" everyone's cast/crew. Students may choose to audition or crew regardless of past participation. More clarification on this policy coming soon.
