After a long hiatus of in-person concerts the Budapest Festival Orchestra recently reopened in September. With the increased COVID infections they are taking further steps to ensure the safety of audience members and performers.
All audience members and musicians will be tested with a rapid antigen coronavirus test before entering the hall. They will only be allowed to attend the concert if the test turns up negative.
The music director of the BFO, Iván Fischer said that he wants everyone at the BFZ concerts to be completely safe so we can clearly rule out the risk of infection. "There will only be people with negative tests in the auditorium and on stage, the virus cannot get into the halls! This way, everyone can indulge in the enjoyment of music without fear. Come to the safe concerts!" he said.
Along with the new measures the BFO has implemented the recent restrictions given by the government in regards to theaters, cinemas, and other cultural and sports venues.
Distance of 1.5 meters should be provided, next to each other and between those sitting in different rows. Audience members can only occupy one in every three seats and immediately behind each member shall not be occupied. Of course, face masks are required at all times.
The BFO management is constantly working to use an even faster, cheaper, and more efficient method in the future rather than the antigen rapid tests. Audience members will be informed about the latest measures taken in the newsletter and on their website.