This page will be updated with current audience health and safety policy changes as they arise. We recommend patrons to visit this page 24 hours prior to their performances.
Updated October 4, 2023
ARLENE SCHNITZER CONCERT HALL (PORTLAND) & SMITH AUDITORIUM (WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY - SALEM)
Beginning with the launch of our 2022/23 Season on September 16, 2022, masks will no longer be required for audiences at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall or Smith Auditorium. We continue to welcome and strongly encourage patrons to wear masks, particularly those who are immunocompromised or unvaccinated. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required for entry.
Policies are subject to change based on local, state, or federal guidelines and recommendations. Any policy or schedule change will be communicated in a timely and transparent way. The safety of our audiences, musicians, and staff remains our highest priority. We ask that patrons be respectful of one another’s choice.
Our partners at Portland’5, Oregon Metro’s Performing Arts Center, who manage the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, announced that the Hall is Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) Certified. This means that the facility has established and maintained a cleaning, disinfection, and infectious diseases prevention program to minimize risks associated with infectious agents like COVID-19. This prevention program template has become the GBAC- recommendation for performing arts centers across the U.S. In addition, Portland’5 has installed MERV 13 air filters in all air handlers. As a result, outdoor fresh air flow can be maximized as much as possible in accordance with CDC and OSHA guidelines while keeping the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall at healthy and comfortable temperatures.
Willamette University has announced that the filters in Smith Auditorium will be updated to MERV 13. The Auditorium is capable of 100% outside air (economization) that travels through the filter banks.
Updated Security Policy: Patron safety is our top priority at the Portland’5 theatres. Please note that weapons are not allowed in the venue. On upcoming visits to the Portland’5 theatres, which includes the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, you’ll see next generation security technology – Evolv – at venue doors. Evolv can differentiate between commonly carried devices, like phones, and concealed weapons, without requiring guests to empty their pockets or bags. We ask that you arrive early to allow for extra time to enter the theatre and note that patrons who bring weapons will not be allowed entry and no refunds will be given. Guests with medical devices will have the option of an alternative screening process. For more information on the Evolv system, please go to portland5.com/visitor-info/safety.