Lyric Opera of Chicago has announced new health protocols as it prepares for a return to live performances.

First, the company has announced that all audience members will be required to provide proof of having received a vaccination approved by either the FDA or WHO in order to enter the opera house. Face masks will also be required for all during the duration of their time in the building. Children under the age of 12 not currently eligible for vaccination will not be admitted to performances at this time.

The company has also announced a mandatory vaccination policy for the administrative staff and members of their eleven partner unions. Among other improvements to reduce transmission are improved ventilation and air filtration systems, designed to decrease recycled air; hospital-grade cleaning practices; touchless fixtures and hand-sanitizing stations; digital e-tickets; and virtual streams for ticket holders who wish to continue watching from home.

There will be manual checks of vaccination cards, with LOoC encouraging patrons to store their vaccination info with the mobile app MyBindle.

“We will continue to review our policies on an ongoing basis to evolve with best practices around health and safety,” says Anthony Freud, Lyric’s general director, president and CEO. “We will also pledge to continue to communicate directly with our audiences, providing them details about what to expect from their in-theater experience and other important pre-performance details and reminders. We look forward to the return to live performance with clearly articulated safety protocols in place for the comfort and security of all.”