Basie Center Will Require Proof Of COVID Vaccine Or Negative Test

RED BANK, NJ — The Basie Center will soon be toughening up its COVID-19 policy.

Starting on Sept.8, anyone attending shows at the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre, The Vogel or Basie Center Cinemas will have to show proof of COVID-19 full vaccination or a test taken within the last 72 hours starting.

Kids ages 12 or younger are exempt from the new rules but will have to remain masked during any events. For events prior to Sept. 8, all patrons must remain masked except while eating or drinking.

Vaccination proof will have to be provided through the Docket smartphone app. New York residents may use their Excelsior Pass. Visitors from outside of the US have to be able to present records clearly proving their fully vaccinated status.

Anyone who has already purchased tickets from shows starting Sept. 8 and cannot adhere to the new policy can ask for credit or a full refund by contacting the box office at 732-842-9000 or boxoffice@thebasie.org.

All students attending Basie Center Academy classes, whether onsite or at satellite locations, are required to wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status.

The new policy is based on recommendations from the State of New Jersey, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, local boards of health and other regulations, according to a statement from Basie Center.

The organization said that it has entertained more than 10,000 masked patrons since late 2o2o.

"Our protocols resulted in zero onsite spread of the COVID-19 virus," the statement said. "For this reason, we will continue to strongly encourage its patrons to follow CDC and State of New Jersey guidance as it pertains to wearing masks indoors."

More information is available here.