AEG Presents, a global leader in concerts and live events, will be requiring proof of vaccination for entry into its owned and operated clubs, theatres, and festivals, including New York’s Webster Hall and Brooklyn Steel, The Roxy and El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, The Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas, Firefly Music Festival, Day N Vegas, The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Coachella Music & Arts Festival, among others.
The vaccination policy, limited only as required by law, will go into effect nationwide by Oct. 1, 2021 to allow time for any eligible unvaccinated ticket holders and staff to reach fully vaccinated status should they choose to do so. Leading up to Oct. 1, AEG Presents will be requiring either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours of the show date.
“We have come to the conclusion that, as a market leader, it was up to us to take a real stand on vaccination status,” says Jay Marciano, COO of AEG and Chairman and CEO, AEG Presents. “Just a few weeks ago, we were optimistic about where our business, and country, were heading. The Delta variant, combined with vaccine hesitancy, is pushing us in the wrong direction again. We realize that some people might look at this as a dramatic step, but it’s the right one.” He continues, “We also are aware that there might be some initial pushback, but I’m confident and hopeful that, at the end of the day, we will be on the right side of history and doing what’s best for artists, fans, and live event workers.”
“Certain states’ regulations may override our mandate, or a few artists may not want to immediately get on board with the plan, but we know that using our platform to take a strong position on vaccinations can make an impact,” adds Shawn Trell, COO and General Counsel, AEG Presents. “The message we want to send is simple and clear: the only way to be as safe as possible is to require everyone to be vaccinated. And we’re confident that others who haven’t been ready to make this full commitment yet will follow our lead.”
This news follows similar COVID entry protocol announcements from a wave of independent Nashville music venues, Live Nation, and festivals including Bonnaroo and Summerfest, to name a few. For more information on COVID-19 and vaccinations, click here.
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