COVID-19 Safety Plan for Bēma Productions

1)    Protocol for Inside Events

a)     Bēma will appoint an Organizer—who will coordinate the entry and exit, and the vaccine verification of patrons and volunteers for each performance.

b)    The Organizer will also oversee the availability and distribution of hand sanitizers at every performance. Sanitizers will be placed at the Bēma entrance to the synagogue, at the entrance to the audience-seating area of the hall, and in the washrooms.

c)     Before entering the stage and audience section of the building, each person will show documentation confirming they are fully vaccinated according to the BC definition of this status. This will include actors, crew, and volunteers.

d)    Each performance of the play will have 3-4 volunteers to help audience members.

e)    One or more Bēma members will have the BC Vaccine Card Verifier App available to verify proof of vaccination.

f)      People will not enter en masse. Small groups, if together, or individuals, will gain access to the verification area in a controlled manner. This will also apply to people who buy tickets at the door. The migration of participants within the building will be limited to moving from the outer doors along a corridor to the audience seating area and to the adjacent washrooms.

g)     The curtain that is usually closed to cordon off the audience area from the rest of the synagogue will be left partially open for better air circulation.

h)    As theatre occupancy limits have been lifted, Bēma will allow for full-capacity seating (70 seats). However, we will space chairs and rows to reflect actual ticket sales, allowing for as much use of the space as possible.

i)      People will choose their own seats but, if necessary, will be assisted. No seats are numbered and are open to all. Provincial regulations do not mandate space between individuals.

j)      Everyone in the synagogue will be required to wear masks. The actors will unmask on stage.

k)     Approximately 1 m leg-room will be available between the first row and the stage. (Actors are never at the front edge of the stage. The loveseat and bench being used extensively on stage are at least 1 m back from the front edge of the stage)

l)      Movement around the hall will be restricted. People can go to washrooms but will be encouraged to wait for the intermission. Other than for washroom use, audiences will also be asked to remain in their seats during intermission. Bēma plans a brief intermission.

m)   At the end of the play the audience will leave the synagogue in successive rows beginning with the last row.

2)    Staff Training and Guidelines

a)     Before the run of Leipzig, Bēma will familiarize everyone associated with the production with Bema’s COVID-19 Safety Plan.

b)    Furthermore, we will give a copy of the plan to our volunteers and leave copies the Front-of-House desk.

c)     The Stage Manager will ensure compliance with (a) and (b).