Mandatory COVID Test Required Before Chappelle’s Foxwoods Show

While some aspects of life post-COVID are still very unclear, we're just starting to see some activity once again in the live performance and concert scene that we've all so dearly missed out on over the past year.

Connecticut was one of only a handful of states that successfully pulled off a few live concerts and comedy shows through portions of the pandemic. Just last week, a few socially-distant concerts have started to be announced for the Westville Music Bowl in New Haven, including Gov't Mule, Twiddle, and the Disco Biscuits. No offense, but I'm not jumping off of my couch to see any of the announced bands, so far anyway.

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But, a big name, if not the biggest name in all of comedy, if not entertainment, is Dave Chappelle. Foxwoods Resort Casino has just booked Chappelle for a couple of dates in June and I noticed that there is a new COVID-19 related hoop that you have to jump through in order to get into the show.

I know I've been wondering what kind of regulations are going to be put into place in order for us to be allowed back into performance venues around Connecticut. We've seen socially-distanced "pods" in the fields of South Farm in Morris and mandated mask policies. Now we're just starting to see that there may be a "proof of vaccination" passport, or something of the like in the near future.

According to Foxwoods, if you want to go see Dave Chappelle on June 25 & 26, 2021 at the Grand Theater, you must first agree to wear a mask at all times while you're in the theater. In addition, each ticket holder will receive a mandatory rapid COVID-19 antigen test prior to entering the venue. If COVID-19 is detected by the rapid test, that individual and all members of the same household will not be allowed into the venue and offered a refund. It's important to note that vaccinated guests ARE NOT exempt from the rapid test.

In addition, it's also been announced that your cell phones and smart watches will be locked into Yondr bags and they'll be unlocked for you as you leave the venue post-show. Chappelle himself tested positive for Covid-19 back in January. The shows have an announced 7 PM start time. I'm sure that if you get tickets, you'll have to show up extra early in order to get the rapid test.