Jim Breuer cancels show at Montclair theater over vaccine mandate, "segregation"

MONTCLAIR, NJ — Comedian Jim Breuer said he’s canceling several upcoming shows, including one at the Wellmont Theater in Montclair, because of the venues’ COVID-19 vaccine policies.

Breuer, a former Saturday Night Live cast member also known for his role in the 1998 film, “Half Baked,” was scheduled to perform at the Wellmont Theater on Dec. 3.

Breuer explained his decision in a recent social media video, accusing the theaters of “segregating” people and claiming that he’s trying to “stick to his morals.”

“I will not do a show where they force you, to come out and laugh, the only way you can do that is that you need to get a shot,” he said.

“The Wellmont Theater, New Jersey … not doing it,” he added.

According to its website, the Wellmont’s current coronavirus policies include:

• Concertgoers will be required to be vaccinated (both doses of Pfizer or Moderna or one shot of Johnson & Johnson with a 14-day inoculation period).
• Concertgoers not currently vaccinated will be required to, at their own cost, submit a negative PCR test upon entry to the theater. The PCR test is required to be administered within seventy-two (72) hours of the event date (unless otherwise specified by performer). This also applies to concertgoers 12 years of age and under or those with a health condition.
• Masks must be worn, at all times, unless actively eating or drinking

The Wellmont is one of several art and entertainment venues in Montclair that have rolled out COVID-19 vaccine rules for people who want to see a show.

Other local venues that have recently announced vaccine policies include Outpost in the Burbs and the Vanguard Theater, which made its announcement alongside dozens of others in New Jersey.

• See related article: Outpost in the Burbs Will Require COVID Vaccines To See Shows
• See related article: Vanguard Theater Announces Vaccine, Mask Requirements

Elsewhere in town, Montclair will be requiring all municipal employees to get a coronavirus vaccination or take part in “regular testing.” Most students at Montclair State University are also required to get vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been warning about “high” virus spread throughout Essex County over the past weeks.

According to the most recent data from the New Jersey Department of Health, about 87 percent of Montclair’s adult population are “fully vaccinated,” meaning that they’ve gotten two Pfizer or Moderna shots or one Johnson & Johnson shot.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

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