by Kevin Zimmermann
SHEBOYGAN, WI (WHBL) – “Life events will look different this season,” according to Executive Director Katy Glodosky, as plans for a 2020-21 season at the Stefanie Weill Center for the Performing Arts were announced Tuesday. Glodosky said that, “As we navigate these changes, we remain committed to providing a positive, safe and memorable experience for everyone in our theater.”
And everyone in the theater will be part of those changes as all persons age two and older will be required to wear a mask when entering and moving through the theater. And although they’re not required while seated, the use of masks will still be encouraged. All staff and volunteers will be masked, and if a patron doesn’t have one, masks will be available for purchase.
Other elements of the plan include reducing capacity to 250 patrons, about one-fourth of capacity, and to ensure social distancing, all seating will be reserved and spaced with at least two chairs and one row between each group of people. There will be hand sanitizer stations throughout the theater and increased cleaning and sanitization between performances. Changes to concessions, ticketing and restroom areas will provide a nearly touchless experience, and the HVAC system will pump outdoor air into the theater and doors will be propped open to promote air flow during performances
Many changes reflected responses by 661 persons to a community survey that also showed 48% would return with safety precautions in place, and 72% would wear masks if required.
Glodosky said that after listening to experts, the industry and the community survey, it’s now up to the patrons to be kind and respectful to each other and come prepared to follow the rules, saying, “This is a learning process for us all.”
