Performing Arts Fort Worth, the nonprofit owner and operator of Bass Performance Hall, has contracted with MDLab, a mobile healthcare provider that specializes in onsite screening tests, to conduct COVID-19 testing of all traveling performers, local stagehands and crew, as well as venue staff during the upcoming Broadway at the Bass series.
“Our partnership with MDLab is providing us a tremendous resource that allows us to bring back live theater to Fort Worth while still protecting the health and safety of our staff, touring companies, local crew personnel, and patrons,” said Jason Wise, vice president of programming and engagement management for Performing Arts Fort Worth.
“When we realized the backstage testing requirements that would be needed to allow Touring Broadway shows to resume all across the U.S., we reached out to Texas Health Resources and were connected with MDLab. This partnership is pivotal to our ability to revive an important part of the performing arts sector in Fort Worth,” Wise said.
Samples taken will undergo PCR testing at the laboratory at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth with results returned in 24 hours. Rapid antigen tests will also be available on-site for those who may be experiencing symptoms.
“Since the pandemic’s start, MDLab has been focused on bringing COVID-19 testing, vaccines and approved therapies directly to businesses and even homes,” said Dr. Dirk Perritt, chief executive officer of Rockwall-based MDLab. “That we can work with Performing Arts Fort Worth and Texas Health Resources on this important endeavor to bring back Broadway performances to Bass Performance Hall is a privilege and a responsibility that we take seriously.”
Texas Health Resources has assisted Performing Arts Fort Worth throughout the pandemic on developing safe reopening guidelines and in the procurement of personal protective equipment for staff, Bass Hall said in a news release.
“We are honored to work with businesses and organizations throughout Dallas-Fort Worth to help them reopen or continue business in a manner that is safe for all,” said Winjie Miao, senior executive vice president and chief experience officer of Texas Health Resources. “We know residents are eager to once again enjoy outings like watching the wonderful Broadway performances at Bass Hall and we applaud Performing Arts Fort Worth for keeping safety a top priority.”
Performing Arts Fort Worth’s 2021-2022 Broadway at the Bass season kicks off Oct. 19 with COME FROM WAY, the remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.
On Sept. 11, 2001, the world stopped. On Sept. 12, their stories moved us all.
For more information on the Broadway at the Bass series, including the long-awaited Fort Worth premiere of HAMILTON, please visit www.basshall.com