The curtain is finally rising again! Dozens of regional theatres are back in full-swing preparing for their grand return to the stage for in-person, indoor productions. The upcoming 2021-2022 season is coming to life just as continuing COVID-19 variants continue to be an on-going cause for concern. For the protection of audiences and theatre workers, Theatre Philadelphia has developed and issued a new Audience COVID-19 Vaccine and Mask Policy for the start of the new season. Over 30 area theatres have already joined Theatre Philadelphia in signing on to the new policy. The policy includes asking theatre audiences to be fully vaccinated or provide a negative COVID-19 test taken within a certain time period ahead of showtime. Audiences will also be required to wear masks following the current policy of the City of Philadelphia for indoor theatre performances where all audiences are not vaccinated. Additionally, twelve area theatres have gone a step farther and will only allow patrons that are fully vaccinated.