The Sandler Center for the Performing Arts announces its all-inclusive reopening plan, which is a blueprint of best practices, policies, and procedures the venue has put in place prior to welcoming back patrons in the upcoming months.

 

The “Together AGAIN!” custom reopening strategy was created using industry standards and recommendations; directives from local, state, and federal governments; guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) / World Health Organization (WHO) and health departments; and expertise from Spectra’s leaders and subject matter experts. The Sandler Center’s first scheduled event to return will be Anchor Church on January 3, 2021. The reopening plan was created in accordance with the City of Virginia Beach and Governor Northam’s mandates.

 

Below is a summary of the key elements of the plan: 

• REDUCING THE SPREAD OF COVID-19
  • We have taken enhanced health and safety measures t protect our venue guests. However, there is an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the CDC, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable. By entering the venue, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19, and Venue disclaims any and all liability related thereto. In accordance with the guidance and recommendations set forth by the CDC and local health officials, we respectfully request that the following guests not attend events:
    • Guests who are feeling sick or experiencing cold or flu-like symptoms (including fever, cough, and shortness of breath).
    • Guests who have been diagnosed with, or believe to have contracted, COVID-19, unless you have had no fever for 72 hours (without the use of medicine) and 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
    • Guests who have been in contact with an individual diagnosed with COVID-19 within the past 14 days.
    • Guests who have traveled internationally in the past 14 days.
• FACE COVERINGS
  • At this time, all patrons entering the venue will be required to wear a facial covering or mask and keep it on at all times while in the venue.
• SOCIAL DISTANCING
  • Guests are required t maintain 6 feet apart at all times. There will be no unnecessary congregations or lines. For events requiring tickets or registration, stanchions and visual markers will be utilized to help attendees adhere to social distancing.
• CLEANING/SANITIZING
  • Our cleaning procedures are thorough and comprehensive. Following recommendations from the CDC and local authorities, our staff is focused on the disinfection of high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, escalators, elevator buttons, and bathrooms.
  • We have also filled hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the facility; advised our volunteers to not hand out programs; and ticket takers, box office, concessions, and coat check staff are encouraged to wear gloves.
  • Our staff, partners, and guests are encouraged to follow standard health precautions, such as consistent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes. We encourage individuals who are sick to stay home.
• BOX OFFICE
  • In an effort to keep our Box Office staff safe, our Box Office will remain closed until further notice.
    • For ticketing questions, please email us at info@sandlercenter.org or message us on Facebook.
  • The following initiatives will be present at the Box Office at the time of opening.
    • Patrons are encouraged to download their tickets to their mobile devices. Instructions will be sent directly to the purchaser with instructions on how to do so.
    • We encourage patrons to give us their email and phone number when purchasing tickets online or at the Box Office to ensure we can communicate with you as needed.
    • Patrons are encouraged to use a credit/debit card instead of cash.
    • Ticket sellers will be wearing face coverings and encouraged to wear gloves. Ticket sellers will do touchless ticket scanning when possible.
• GUEST EXPERIENCE
  • To move guests in a safe and orderly manner, the following procedures are in place.
    • Doors will be opened by venue staff who will help space people coming through to allow for appropriate social distancing. Outdoor ushers will direct patrons towards an appropriate entrance.
    • Theater doors will be propped open when the venue opens. Ticket takers and ushers will encourage patrons to go into the theater to find their seats and not congregate around entrances or the lobby.
    • Large bags are discouraged from being brought into the building. All bags will be searched in a touchless manner.
    • Coat check will be open to accepting items that need to be stored during performances. Information about safety procedures and policies will be posted and available at the coat check booth.
    • There will be no standing cocktail tables, rack card stands, or other items in the lobby that might encourage congregation.
    • Staff manning the merchandise booth will wear face coverings and patrons will be encouraged to pay using a touchless debit/credit card system.

 

“Our first priority when creating our reopening strategy was the safety of our employees, guests, and performers. With that mindset, we created a comprehensive reopening plan that encompasses the full event experience.” David Semon, Spectra’s General Manager at the Sandler Center, said. “We want everyone who enters the Sandler Center to know what precautionary measures we’ve implemented. We are looking forward to being Together Again to enjoy arts and entertainment in Virginia Beach.”

 

Event updates and policies and procedures can be found on the Sandler Center website and social media: Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For more info, photos, or interview requests, please contact: Megan Boyle at mboyle@sandlercenter.org.