Tampa’s Straz Center to require vaccine or negative COVID test for entry

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts announced Tuesday that proof of a negative COVID-19 test or vaccination will be required for admission to all shows held at the facility starting this month.

“We are implementing these reasonable and necessary measures to ensure that we maintain the safest and healthiest environment for our patrons, students, volunteers and staff,” said Straz Center President and CEO Judy Lisi.

The performing arts center in downtown Tampa is one of the Tampa Bay area’s largest arts venues, with a robust annual lineup of shows including a Broadway series. After a series of cancelations and postponements in 2020, the 2021 Broadway season starts in October.

Starting Sept. 18, guests will be required to show proof of one of the following to enter the Straz for any event:

• A negative PCR test administered by a medical provider/official testing center no earlier than 72 hours before the time of their performance.
• A negative rapid antigen test administered by a medical provider/official testing center no earlier than 24 hours prior to the time of their performance. Home testing kit results will not be accepted.
• A CDC vaccination card showing an individual is fully vaccinated.

These requirements apply to all guests ages 5 and older.

Florida law says businesses can’t require customers to show proof of vaccination. But adding an option for a negative test is different, and the governor’s office has acknowledged that the combination makes this rule lawful. The loophole allows event organizers to deny entry due to the lack of a negative test, not vaccination status.