With the nation's largest comic conventions reopening their doors this year, many are wondering if proof of vaccination will be required. Well, at New York Comic Con (NYCC) the answer is "yes."
ReedPop (NYCC show producers), in compliance with a recent New York mandate requiring proof of vaccination in most public places including restaurants, bars, and public show venues, has announced they WILL be requiring proof of full vaccination to enter this year's convention.
In an interview with THR, ReedPop laid out their guidelines which stated:
"The con, which takes place Oct. 7-10 at the Javitz Center, will require attendees 12 and over to provide proof of full vaccination. Those under 12 must be accompanied by a fully vaccinated guardian and provide proof of a negative COVID test. Attendees must also wear face coverings inside except while eating or drinking.
ReedPop organizers say there is anecdotal evidence of support for vaccines among its audience.”
If you’re wondering if this has sent anti-vaxers running for the hills, it hasn’t. Earlier this week it was announced that the Seattle video game convention (PAX West) would also require vaccines and it was reported that only about ten people asked for a refund.
ReedPop also laid out their plans for their other major conventions like C2E2 in Chicago which will require proof of vaccination and/or a negative COVID test taken within the last 24 hours. Rapid testing will be offered on sight at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois.
“We had a nice spike in ticket sales,” ReedPop president Lance Fensterman told The Hollywood Reporter. “That tells us people want that layer of security and appreciate that layer of safety.”
ReedPop is prepared to keep both their guests and their staff protected to the fullest extend, regardless of the show's location.
“If you walk up to a table you will have plexiglass there protecting both the fan and the guest,” says Event Director Kristina Rogers. “If anybody is a Star Trek nerd you can re-create that scene with Kirk and Spock really nicely. It looks really great.”
What are your thoughts on this new development? Will this measure intice you to go back to the con floor, or does it change your opinion one way or another? Sound off in the comment section.