Continued Masking at Scarborough Village Theatre
To Our Loyal and Understanding Patrons,
Although there is no governmental mandate that requires businesses to enforce masking in their space, there is no legislation that prevents a business from requiring masks to be worn on their premises. To date the only feedback that we have had from our regular ticket holders is that requiring masking makes them feel more comfortable at the theatre, particularly at crowded performances. We do make exceptions for those who can provide documentation of legitimate disabilities or medical conditions that would prevent them from being masked. If you fall into one of these categories, simply have the appropriate documentation with you when you come to the theatre.
During the run of Storm Warning in October Scarborough Players was forced to cancel 1/3 of their performances due to a Covid outbreak in the cast. Although much of the reason behind our masking policies is concern for the health of our performers, volunteers, and audiences, it is also a simple financial fact that having to regularly cancel performances would not be a tenable situation – particularly after several years of having no ticket income during the pandemic.
As recently as November 14, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health strongly recommended wearing masks at all indoor events. Masking remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses, including Covid. As we see increasing cases across the province of hospitals, particularly pediatric hospitals, running above capacity and being forced to cancel elective procedures, we feel that we have a duty to our community to follow recommended guidelines to reduce the spread of the respiratory tridemic that is currently circulating.
Ian Fox
President, Theatre Scarborough.
Covid Protocols FAQ
Will we have to wear masks at all times?
Yes, at this time we are requiring all patrons to wear masks at all times in the lobby and theatre auditorium, including when lining up for a performance, while inside our buildings to use the washrooms, when travelling to their seat and when seated during the performance.
This is for the safety of our actors who will be unmasked during performances and to maintain the viability of our productions. Many community theatres have had to shut down productions mid-run due to covid cases in the cast. Please help us to keep everyone safe!
Will you supply masks – what kind of masks are acceptable?
It is expected that patrons will supply their own masks. Face coverings must fully cover the full mouth and nose. Those that are open at the top, and not snug to your skin around your nose, cheeks and jaw are not appropriate. Face shields are not acceptable.
In the event a patron arrives without a mask one will be provided.
Will I have to be vaccinated to attend shows or volunteer?
We will no longer be requiring proof of vaccination to attend productions at Scarborough Village Theatre. Though we do require our volunteers to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination.
What do I do if I have COVID related symptoms on the day of the performance?
If you, or any member of your party or household, are in quarantine or isolation, have come in close contact with someone with COVID-19, are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 or have tested positive for COVID-19, do not visit the theatre. If you cannot visit the theatre for the above reasons, we are offering flexible ticket exchanges, credit on your account, a deferment pass or a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the date on your tickets. Please call 416-267-9292 or email boxoffice@theatrescarborough.com prior to your showtime.
Where do we enter the building and what happens when we do?
Theatre Patrons should enter the Scarborough Village Recreation Centre through the Theatre Doors at the South West end of the building.
How do we enter the theatre?
Going forward we will be using both entrances to the theatre located on either side of the box office. Patrons with seats numbers 1 – 30 will enter on through the main theatre doors to the left of the box office. Patrons with seat numbers 31 – 65 will enter through the alternate entrance to the right of the box office.
When should I arrive?
While we ask that you not arrive any earlier than 45 minutes before the performance, please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time to allow for physical distancing while the audience is being seated.
What if I’m late or I leave the auditorium during the performance?
It is the responsibility of the ticket-holder to check their ticket for the correct performance, day of the week and curtain time. All performances begin promptly as scheduled, and there are no refunds for latecomers.
Latecomers and any persons leaving the auditorium may only be admitted at a suitable break in the performance and only if there is an easily accessible seat available. For certain events, it may not be possible to seat latecomers until the intermission. If the production has no intermission, latecomers may not be admitted at all. Late seating is at the discretion of the Front of House Manager.
Will you have washrooms available to the public?
Yes, the washrooms at the recreation centre will be open to our patrons before the performance and at intermission. Accessing the main building beyond the washroom area is prohibited at this time. Masks must be worn inside at all times.
Will there be an intermission?
For most performances, yes, there will and the intermission room will be available for patrons.
Will you be selling food and drink?
Yes! Our refreshments stand is open again. Please note that we do not sell bottled water. Patrons who wish to bring their own sealable water bottles are welcome to do so. Please note water is the only beverage allowed in the theatre auditorium. Food is prohibited at all times.
What are your cleaning procedures?
We have updated our cleaning protocols and products with guidance from our local health unit in response to the COVID-19 virus. To ensure we are following the most up-to-date recommendations we will continue to work closely with our health unit and update our procedures as appropriate.
Can I bring my backpack, bag or suitcase into the theatre?
We ask that you leave all bags and all large personal items at home. Coats and jackets must be kept on your seat or lap.
Will the Hearing Assist System by in use?
Yes the Hearing Assistant system will be in use. You are welcome to bring your own earphones or we will provide a disposable option for you. Please note if you are bringing your own they must have a standard 1/4″ jack.
Can I bring flowers or a gift for one of the perfomers, musicians or crew?
We would prefer you didn’t for the time being. Please just show your appreciation with your applause!
Can we wait in the lobby at the end of the show for friends who are part of the show?
All actors, crew and musicians will exit the theatre through the stage door which is located on the outside of the building just south of the Theatre door where you entered the building. They will not be coming into the lobby area.