The Hopkinton Center for the Arts announced that it will require proof of vaccination by eligible individuals as well as face coverings for any indoor event at the facility. Children and other individuals who are not eligible for the vaccine may attend performances wearing a mask.

“HCA is one of many performing arts venues in MetroWest and the greater Worcester and Boston area who have come to this decision in the best interest of public health,” wrote HCA Executive Director Kelly Grill in an email to the community. “We will continually monitor best practices and make adjustments to this policy when we feel confident it is safe to do so.”

Grill added that the HCA is “disheartened to take a step backward in this fight against the spread” of COVID-19 and noted that the organization “has been successful in minimizing exposure to less than 1 percent of our population and we intend to continue to be vigilant.”

Continued Grill: “We have so enjoyed celebrating the arts with you safely this year. It has made us forever grateful for the little pleasures in life including sitting and enjoying art together. We vow to never take that for granted in the future.”