San Francisco Opera Requiring Proof of Vaccinations

Based on updated medical advice and audience feedback, concertgoers aged 12 and over will need to show evidence of vaccination before entering performances

The War Memorial Opera House (Photo courtesy: SF Opera and SF Ballet)

In preparation for their 2021-22 season, this announcement by the San Francisco Opera (SFOpera) is to ensure the safety of everyone attending concerts at the War Memorial Opera House and the Diane B. Wilsey Center for Opera. 

Such safety protocols are in place to address the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent surge in Delta Variant cases. They were devised with a team of University California San Francisco (UCSF) doctors, led by epidemiologist Dr. George Rutherford.

Additionally, SFOpera audiences need to wear face masks and use hand sanitizer. More cleaning staff were hired for enhanced cleaning, and tickets and program books will be distributed digitally. 

"We're taking steps to put safety first,” reads SFOpera’s Facebook page. "Your health, as well as the wellbeing of our artists and staff, is our greatest priority."

"We've been in constant consultation for a year with doctors at the UCSF," Matthew Shilvock, general director of SFOpera told The Chronicle. "After our recent conversations, we felt this was the time to move to a totally vaccinated environment."

Similarly, The Metropolitan Opera also announced that vaccinations are mandatory for all patrons over 12. Children under 12 cannot be in the audience regardless of the vaccination status of their guardian. This will not change until a vaccine for children becomes available.