Stage AE to require proof of vaccination for shows

Stage AE will require proof of covid-19 vaccination for all concertgoers and event staff starting next week with the Modest Mouse show, according to the venue.

“For the show to go on, we have updated our vaccination policy to ensure the safety of fans, artists and live event workers,” a post to the North Shore venue’s social media pages read. “This policy will be in effect starting with our next show on Aug. 18.”

The requirement comes as part of a larger mandate from parent company AEG Presents, based in Los Angeles. All AEG venues will have to have the policy in place by Oct. 1. Leading up to that date, a policy requiring proof of vaccination or a negative covid test within the past 72 hours will be in place.

“We have come to the conclusion that, as a market leader, it was up to us to take a real stand on vaccination status,” said Jay Marciano, chief executive of AEG Presents, which acquired Promowest in 2018. “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.”

AEG Presents is an owner or partner at dozens of venues and festivals: the Roxy and El Ray Theatre in Los Angeles, the Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas, the Firefly Music Festival, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Coachella.

Shawn Trell, general counsel for AEG Presents, said certain states’ regulations might override the company’s policy but “we know that using our platform to take a strong position on vaccinations can make an impact.”

Venues will accommodate medical and religious exemptions with necessary documentation. Children under age 12, who are not eligible to receive the vaccine, will have to show proof of a negative covid test. While masks aren’t required at AEG Presents shows unless they’re mandated locally, management said they are “strongly encouraging” patrons to mask up.

In a frequently asked questions section, company leaders address those who “have no intention of getting vaccinated, so what now?”

“We wish you would reconsider your choice because this is a matter of public health, and we won’t get to have nice things like normal concerts without masks unless everyone gets vaccinated,” the answer reads. “However, if you prefer to miss the show, we will have an update on limited refund availability, guided by local regulations, closer to Oct. 1.”