This is it! The moment we’ve been waiting for. We are thrilled to bring back The Florida Orchestra at full power for full audiences throughout Tampa Bay.
Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have done everything possible to bring you live music with creativity and passion – all while maintaining protocols to keep you, our musicians and our staff healthy and safe.
That commitment has not changed.
As we get ready to launch our 54th season, I’d like to give you an update on what to expect:
- Concerts will return to what you know and love: full stages of musicians for traditional length concerts, including intermission, at three major performing arts venues operating at full capacity: the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, The Duke Energy Center for the Arts/Mahaffey Theater in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater.
- Masks that cover the nose and mouth will be required for all TFO patrons and staff in all venues, regardless of vaccination status. We realize this is inconvenient, and we appreciate your understanding and sacrifice. In the end, we prefer to err on the side of caution. If this policy prevents even one person from getting seriously ill, it’s worth it. (Masks may be lifted briefly for drinks in the lobby; drinks are not permitted in the theaters.)
- In addition, the Straz Center will require proof of a negative Covid-19 test or full vaccination to attend any performance at the venue. Patrons unable or unwilling to meet these requirements can exchange their TFO tickets for another venue or a future concert in the 2021/22 season without a fee. To do so, patrons can email the voided tickets to the TFO Ticket Center at TicketCenter@FloridaOrchestra.org.
- On stage, all TFO musicians, conductors and guest artists, as well as staff, will be fully vaccinated.
Following CDC guidelines, we strongly encourage Covid-19 vaccinations for the safety of everyone. However, by working with the different requirements of our partner venues, patrons will have options.
Circumstances may very well change as the season progresses. Working closely with an epidemiologist, we will continue to re-evaluate protocols as needed. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
None of this is easy. But it’s worth it. We truly believe in the power of music to bring people together to heal, share, laugh and grow. It’s exactly what we need to keep us moving forward with courage and hope.
Starting with the blockbuster combination of Beethoven’s Fifth and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, we are building on the momentum of last season – thanks to you. I want to thank each and every one of you who has stood by your orchestra and responded with outstanding support. You have made us a stronger orchestra to build a better Tampa Bay for all. You have made a huge difference.
Thank you for joining us in the concert hall to hear music at its best. I can’t wait to experience this amazing season with you.
Mark Cantrell
President & CEO
The Florida Orchestra
