Argyle Theatre Taking Preventative Measures Against Coronavirus

BABYLON, NY — The Argyle Theatre is taking precautions amid the coronavirus outbreak, but not canceling any shows just yet. The local theatre, located on Main Street in Babylon, have implemented new protocols to "ensure the health and safety" of patrons, according to a statement from the owners.

Following the recommendations of public health authorities and the Centers for Disease Control, the venue is taking the following steps to take preventative measures against the disease:

• Enhancing the technique they use to clean the facility before, during and after each performance.
• Paying special attention to cleaning high traffic points of contact such as restroom facilities, auditorium seats, armrests, railings, door handles, counters and other hard surfaces.
• Cleaning the facilities frequently with recommended sanitizing products.
• Installing numerous wall mounted hand sanitizer units in high traffic areas in the building.
• Taking steps to ensure the continued welfare of our employees including instructing employees who feel ill to stay home and consult their healthcare providers. Theyare also urging all employees to be vigilant about frequent and effective hand washing.

"If you have already purchased tickets for an upcoming show or are in the process of purchasing, we look forward to seeing you and want to reassure you that we are doing everything we can to promote a safe and secure theatrical experience," the statement reads. "We want our patrons to enjoy the escape that live theatre provides, especially in these challenging times. Our patrons’ health and safety is our highest priority and we truly appreciate the trust that you place in our team and our company. As always, we appreciate your continued support of live theatre and we look forward to seeing you all very soon at one of our upcoming shows. The show must go on, but let's make sure we are all taking care of ourselves and each other."

At a news conference Thursday afternoon, the governor announced that all gatherings of more than 500 people will be banned to help mitigate the spread of the disease, which has infected 41 in Nassau County and 20 in Suffolk. Venues that hold less than 500 people will have to operate at 50 percent capacity, Cuomo said, making the maximum occupancy 250.