Health & Safety Protocols

As a resident company of the AT&T Performing Arts Center, The Dallas Opera adheres to the health and safety protocols and policies in our home venue, the Winspear Opera House. Together, we put the safety of our patrons, artists, volunteers, and staff first.  The Center continues to monitor guidelines from the leading public health agencies for the latest information and updates protocols accordingly. All protocols subject to change.

Mask Enforcement

All staff and visitors entering our buildings are required to wear face masks covering the nose and mouth while inside. The Center will continue to provide free masks to those who forget to bring one. The CDC strongly recommends that masks be N95, KN94, or surgical grade masks – cloth masks are not as effective in containing the spread of COVID viruses.

Indoor Masking Policies

• Masks are required while moving about and seated, regardless of age or vaccination status.
• Removing masks to enjoy concessions in the lobby is acceptable.
• For the time being, concession consumption will be limited to the lobby.
• Concessions will not be permitted inside the performance hall.

Visit the AT&T Performing Art Center’s website for more information about health and safety protocols and policies, including detailed information about ventilation and sanitization procedures.  

Arriving at the Winspear

Parking: The Lexus Red parking facility is fully operational. Limited valet parking is also available. We recommend a maximum of four people in the parking elevators to accommodate social distancing. If you prefer not to take the elevator, stairs or escalator (if operational) are alternative options. Please plan to arrive early so you have ample time. Inner Circle members will still enjoy the benefit of reserved parking on the 2nd level.

Entering the Winspear: The building will open 90 minutes prior to performance time. Volunteers will greet you outside the building and assist with security screening as you prepare to enter. AT&T Performing Arts Center prohibits all firearms on the premises, including licensed open and concealed carry (Texas Penal Code 30.06 & 30.07) and unlicensed carry (Texas Penal Code 30.05). The Center will employ new security measures during live events, including touchless walk-through security scanners and bag checks. Please plan to arrive early so you have ample time.

Proof of vaccination, negative COVID tests, and temperature checks are not required to enter the building at this time. Subject to change.

Masks Required: As mentioned above, masks are required to enter the building, while moving about and seated, regardless of vaccination status. Please be sure that masks cover both your mouth and nose and fit securely under your chin. There are no medical exceptions. If you refuse to wear a mask, you will be asked to leave. Gaiters, bandanas, and vented masks are discouraged.

Lobby Experience

All Dallas Opera staff, venue staff, and volunteers working performances are fully vaccinated.

Box Office: All patrons will have their tickets scanned before entering the building. We are making every effort to make our events paperless and recommend that you have your e-ticket with a barcode available for scanning. Printed and hardcopy tickets will also be accepted. If you cannot locate your tickets and require a reprint, we can assist you at the Box Office. Please purchase tickets in advance of the event to minimize contact at the Box Office. Cash will not be accepted.

Coat Check and Assisted Listening Devices are available in the Concierge and Accessibility area in the east lobby. Devices are sanitized after each use.

Concessions: Dining at the Skyline Terrace will be available for Dallas Opera performances. To make a reservation, please visit the AT&T Performing Arts Center website. Beverages and light snacks are also available for purchase in the lobby and through the Noble phone app. Please download the app in advance of your event here. For the time being, concession consumption will be limited to the lobby. Concessions will not be permitted inside the performance hall.

Lobby Social Distancing and Sanitation: Lobby spaces, restrooms, and interior elevators will have prominent signage for safety guidelines, as well as a multitude of hand sanitizer stations, but will be self-monitored. Cleaning crews will sanitize restrooms and lobby spaces regularly during performance times.

The McDermott Performance Hall

Hall Entry: The performance hall will be open 30-minutes prior to the performance start time. We recommend getting settled in your seats early.

Late Seating: Late seating is only permitted at the intermission break for Mainstage operas. If you arrive after the performance has started or leave your seats before the intermission break, you may watch a live feed in Hamon Hall and move to the Margaret McDermott Performance Hall after intermission. Late seating for other performances will be accommodated at the discretion of the House Manager. There are no refunds for patrons arriving after the published performance time or for no-shows. If you are unable to attend, please donate your tickets for a tax credit before the performance by voicemail at 214.443.1005.

Program Book: A printed program book will be provided for all performances. Digital programs are available on our website and will be emailed to ticket holders in advance.

Backstage: No guests or visitors will be permitted backstage.