Health & Safety

The Ordway’s air system brings in fresh air from the outside to help limit the spread of airborne viruses like COVID-19. In addition, several updates have been made to further improve air safety inside the Ordway:

• Upgraded the heating, ventilation, and air-condition (HVAC) filtration to a high-efficiency MERV 13 filters, following Minnesota Department of Health best practices.

• Added HVAC controls and sensors to improve air velocity within the building and provide additional monitoring and control of the system by our facility engineers.

• Removed forced air hand dryers in all restrooms, which have been shown to disperse a high quantity of bacteria into the air, and replaced them with paper towel dispensers.

In addition to the robust cleaning practices that were already in place, we have:

• Increased the frequency of cleaning throughout the building for high-touch areas in the front of house and back of house areas of the Ordway

• Added state-of-the-art practices including self-cleaning anti-microbial covers in high touch areas where possible

• Set up hand-sanitizing stations throughout the venue

• Trained all employees in critical hand washing and cleaning guidelines

• Replaced waste receptacles with open top units so guests can throw out items without touching any surfaces

Masks are not required to attend performances at the Ordway, but are welcomed and encouraged.

This policy applies to all events inside of the Ordway.  

This policy will vary between performances and presenting organizations. The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and Schubert Club are currently operating at limited capacity at all performances with hall capacities set at 50% to allow distancing between households. Minnesota Opera and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts are operating at regular capacity.

Yes. Venues large and small across the United States continue to reevaluate their COVID-19 safety policies and revise them based on recommendations from public health experts.

Staff will be trained to work with guests who may question building policies. Staff will listen, offer options, and seek resolution while keeping in mind the ultimate goal of protecting the health and safety of all guests and staff. 

Food and beverages will be available for purchase at select performances. No outside beverages will be allowed in the venue. 

If you are not currently vaccinated, you can find out when, where, and how to get a free COVID-19 vaccine via Minnesota’s Vaccine Connector:

You can find a free testing location near you via the State of Minnesota website:

We will continue to follow the latest public safety guidelines. We would notify you if any changes take place.