Early signs of success with new measures

Such measures are a major adjustment in an industry that is traditionally centered in socialization and community, but ASC and other theaters are proving the show can still go on, even if things look different.

As ASC continued through its fourth week of summer performances, McSweeny said the SafeStart re-opening model has proven effective and successful thus far.

“Our experience so far has been that if you layer all these mitigations together, and you practice them consistently, that gives you a chance,” he said.

Some theater organizations from at least 13 other states have been in communication with ASC as they work on their own re-openings, finding inspiration, guidance and collaboration with ASC.

Though ASC is one of the pioneers for live theater re-openings, they are part of a global community working together to continue creating and producing art, adapting as necessary.

“We are all learning from one another right now; this hasn’t been done before. It’s essential that all theatres work together to make this process as smooth as possible and as safe as possible,” said Sky Wilson, marketing manager for ASC. “One organization re-opening badly would not only have consequences for their immediate community, but also for the rest of the industry.”