By Derek Simon

Last Thursday, the Minnesota Department of Health announced that bars and restaurants are allowed to have live music inside their venues. The establishments must follow all social distancing guidelines. These social distancing guidelines will be enforced for all patrons and band members.

All venues must have a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan that explains how the business or organization will keep workers, patrons, performers, students, and/or visitors safe. The plan must be posted and be accessible for all workers, performers, and patrons. Each business must assign a designated Plan administrator to ensure their COVID-19 Preparedness Plan addresses all requirements, is put into practice, and is updated as necessary.The plan must also address face covering protocol.

There are several social distancing guidelines for concerts. The bands must be at least twelve feet away from their audiences. Band members also must socially distance on stage between them during the performance. This means band members must stay six feet apart while playing. Tables must be six feet apart and are limited to a maximum of six family members or four non family members. Audience members not seated at a table, must be six feet apart except for any family members in attendance.

Karaoke is not permitted. Karaoke generally has a few microphones that are used by several people during an event. It also has several singers taking turns on the same stage. Singing produces more droplets than patrons talking. For these reasons Karaoke is considered a higher risk than a band performing on stage.

Establishments that are serving food and drinks must not allow dancing. Dancing is considered high risk. Dancers will spread more droplets than a sitting audience, due to the physical activity resulting in heavier breathing.

Venues that allow special events or celebrations must adhere to the rules regarding attendance. No more than 250 people or 25 percent of capacity.

Dancing is allowed at these venues, however it is still not recommended. Everyone dancing must wear masks. Persons dancing from different households must socially distance. Line dancing or any form of “touchless” dancing is encouraged. Businesses are also encouraged to limit the number of dancers on the dance floor or to split them into two rotating groups. They also suggest repeating popular songs for all groups or to divide out popular songs for each group. The Dj’s or bands are also asked to stop playing if crowding occurs and only to continue once dancers are again socially distancing.

For more information regarding live music performances, visit the state health department website.