As of November 1, 2022, the New Parkway is no longer requiring proof of vaccination nor masks at the theater. We are fortunate to live in a county with very high vaccination rates, and hope that those who attend will be vaccinated whenever possible.
The staff of the New Parkway is 100% vaccinated. If someone is hired who is unable to be vaccinated for health reasons, they will be tested on a frequent and regular basis.
While it goes against our DNA, the New Parkway has and will continue to observe all masking and social distancing mandates from the City of Oakland, Alameda County, and the State of California. And as soon as the county health department drops its order, we will no longer require masks at the theater (though you are welcome to wear them as long as you’d like).
As far as masks go, please understand that we are a community space where patrons are consuming food and drink, so masking will not be possible at all times. New Parkway staff introducing films and talent performing at the theater may also not be masked. Everyone will be expected to be masked at all other times.
We have improved our air filtration system by installing MERV-13 filters in all three of our HVAC units, and the fan units will be moving and filtering air at all times during your theatergoing experience. You will also see some smaller HEPA filtration units in our lobby and on the Mezzanine, areas where social distancing and masking is not always possible.
What you will not see are plastic shields, constant wiping of surfaces, nor bottles of hand sanitizer everywhere. None of these have proven to be magic bullets in stopping Covid transmission, and some have actually been proven to be detrimental.
Lastly, we ask that if you feel sick, be it due to Covid or anything else, that you please stay home. And, if you find yourself sick following a visit to the New Parkway Theater, that you please let us know so that we can spread the word to others as needed.