CMA Awards return to Bridgestone Arena, masks and vaccine proof required for audience

 

After pivoting to a smaller, private event in 2020, the CMA Awards will return to Nashville's Bridgestone Arena this year to reclaim the show's pre-pandemic grandeur — but with new health protocols in place.

The ceremony will be held at Bridgestone on November 10, the Country Music Association announced Wednesday. The show is once again open to the public, and a limited number of tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Mon. Nov. 1 via Ticketmaster.

All ticketed audience members will be required to show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19, and masks will be required at all times when attendees aren't actively drinking or eating. In a press release, CMA Chief Executive Officer Sarah Trahern said the requirements are "due to TV production protocols and venue and local rules." 

Last year's CMA broadcast was closed to the public, and was held across the street from Bridgestone at the Music City Center. All nominees, guests and crew were tested for COVID-19, and the stars were sat individually at banquet tables spaced eight feet apart.

This year, the show's performers, nominees and guests will also be required to wear masks when not performing, presenting, participating in "media opportunities" or eating/drinking. Beyond those rules, the CMA said they will be "in compliance with the local health and safety regulations and requirements from the television unions."...MORE