People attending the Utah Symphony and Utah Opera will have to show proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a recent negative test result, starting Sept. 16.
Utah Symphony | Utah Opera announced the policy Friday. It covers the symphony’s concerts at Abravanel Hall and the opera company’s performances at the Capitol Theatre.
Ticket holders will have to show proof that they have been fully vaccinated, or evidence of a negative test result taken within 72 hours of the performance. Home tests are not acceptable. They also will have to show a valid photo ID.
Face coverings are required for the symphony’s Abravanel Hall shows before Sept. 16 — “¡Celebración Sinfónica!” next Wednesday and a live-accompaniment screening of “Star Wars, Episode VI: Return of the Jedi” on Sept. 9 and 10. Masks are strongly encouraged for the symphony’s outdoor concert, on Sept. 11 at Sandy Promenade, to mark the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks.
The symphony and opera also will continue to require face coverings for anyone not vaccinated — including children under age 12, who are not eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. Those who are vaccinated still are strongly encouraged to wear a mask.
Both Abravanel Hall and the Capitol Theatre are operated by Salt Lake County — but because the county contracts out to the symphony and opera, private nonprofit organizations, the venues are not covered by state law that prohibits government entities from creating a vaccination requirement.
