Lougheed Centre to follow rules

By Murray Green

The Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre in Camrose is adopting new health and safety requirements. That includes proof of vaccination and photo ID.

“Your safety, while being able to enjoy the performing arts is important to us, which is why we’re making the decision to require vaccinations under the province’s Restriction Exemption Program,” explained Nick Beach, general manager of the Lougheed Centre.

The focus at the Lougheed Centre remains one of celebrating the arts, while keeping patrons, staff, volunteers, entertainers and contractors safe. In light of the September 15 announcement from the Government of Alberta, the centre is adopting new patron safety requirements for attending events. New temporary measures introduced by the province provide two options, the first of which is to implement the province’s Restriction Exemption Program requiring proof of vaccination, or a negative test result; the second is to operate at one third of fire code capacity. The Lougheed chose to go with the first option.

“Ultimately, this decision allows us to remain open and continue our journey of fostering a love of the arts, while at the same time, supporting artists, our staff, volunteers and our sponsors. In speaking with our partners and stakeholders, this decision sets us on a path forward that has the best interests of everyone involved. We thank you and look forward to seeing you soon,” said Jeffrey HeydenKaye, marketing and sponsorship coordinator.

The Lougheed Centre is approaching these new requirements in a way that allows patrons who aren’t vaccinated time to get immunized or to show proof of a negative test within 72 hours for the next performances.

Effective Friday, October 1, the Lougheed Centre will require all patrons, staff and volunteers to have their first, single dose of the vaccination, as long as it was given more than two weeks prior to service. The other option is to provide proof of a negative test within 72 hours of service, purchased privately.

Effective Monday, October 25, attendees are required to have their second vaccination, as long as it was given more than two weeks prior to service. The other option is to provide proof of a negative test within 72 hours of service, purchased privately.

Patrons unable to wear a mask or receive a vaccination must provide documentation of medical exemption.

The vaccine requirement does not apply to children under 12. Masks are still required for children two years old and over.

Patrons must show documents to staff. “While we do require proof of vaccination, we also respect your privacy and will not be storing any health or personal information,” explained Nick.

Digital tickets are available to some of the performances.

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