AEG Presents has said US concertgoers and event staff will now have to prove they have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
The live music and events company said it will ask its staff to share proof of full vaccination across its festivals, clubs and theatres because of a spike in case numbers in the US.
The policy will come into full effect across the US from the beginning of October, with the company noting that several venues are already following local government vaccination processes. The date of October 1 was chosen to give ticket holders and staff the chance to obtain a fully vaccinated status.
Leading up to October 1, AEG Presents will be implementing a policy of showing proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test taken within 72 hours of show date where permitted.
Jay Marciano, chief operating officer of AEG and chairman and chief executive officer of AEG Presents, said: “We have come to the conclusion that, as a market leader, it was up to us to take a real stand on vaccination status.
“Just a few weeks ago, we were optimistic about where our business, and country, were heading. The Delta variant, combined with vaccine hesitancy, is pushing us in the wrong direction again. We realise that some people might look at this as a dramatic step, but it’s the right one.
“We also are aware that there might be some initial pushback, but I’m confident and hopeful that, at the end of the day, we will be on the right side of history and doing what’s best for artists, fans, and live event workers.”
Shawn Trell, chief operating officer and general counsel for AEG Presents, added: “Certain states’ regulations may override our mandate, or a few artists may not want to immediately get on board with the plan, but we know that using our platform to take a strong position on vaccinations can make an impact.
“The message we want to send is simple and clear: the only way to be as safe as possible is to require everyone to be vaccinated. And we’re confident that others who haven’t been ready to make this full commitment yet will follow our lead.”
AEG Presents has already cancelled Jazz Fest 2021, due to be held in New Orleans, due to Covid-19.
Image: Aaron Paul on Unsplash
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