Central Minnesota Arts Consortium Announces Updated COVID-19 Protocols

(KNSI) — As theaters and events reopen, three local arts organizations say they will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test.

The Paramount Center for the Arts, the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra, and the College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University say attendees ages 12 and up must show proof of a COVID-19 vaccine or a negative test within the 72 hours prior to an event. This is on top of the current COVID protocol that requires a properly fitting face mask while indoors at those venues, regardless of vaccination status.

The vaccine mandate went into effect for the St. Cloud Symphony Orchestra on October 1st. The mandate for CSB/SJU Fine Arts goes into effect on October 9th. The mandate for the Paramount Center for the Arts begins on November 1st.

According to a press release, it says the protocols will be reviewed regularly and may be changed based on “evolving medical information including case numbers and community vaccination rates.”

As of September 29th, when the latest vaccination information is available, 53.1% of Stearns County residents age 16 and up are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. That’s slightly higher than Benton County’s 52.5%. Sherburne County, which was once lagging far behind in COVID vaccination rates, is at 54.4% of people over 16 who are fully vaccinated.

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