AEG Presents, the live music and event company that hosts Coachella and other big-name concerts across the country, announced Thursday that it will require proof of vaccination against COVID-19 for entry into the company’s owned and operated clubs, theaters and festivals.
“The decision comes on the heels of the dramatic surge in COVID-19 cases as the Delta variant spreads throughout the United States,” according to AEG.
The policy will go into effect no later than Oct. 1, 2021. The company will require both concertgoers and staff to be vaccinated.
CEO of AEG Presents, Jay Marciano, said the company decided to institute a vaccination requirement because of its leading role in the music and entertainment industry.
“Just a few weeks ago, we were optimistic about where our business, and country, were heading. The Delta variant, combined with vaccine hesitancy, is pushing us in the wrong direction again,” said Marciano in a statement.
"We realize that some people might look at this as a dramatic step, but it’s the right one. We also are aware that there might be some initial pushback, but I’m confident and hopeful that, at the end of the day, we will be on the right side of history and doing what’s best for artists, fans and live event workers.”
According to The Hollywood Reporter, AEG is the second largest live event company in the country.
AEG Presents owns or operates a number of well known venues and festivals across the country, such as New York’s Webster Hall, The Roxy and El Rey Theatre in Los Angeles, The Theatre at Resorts World Las Vegas, Firefly Music Festival, The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Coachella Music & Arts Festival.