General House Policies

  • The lobbies generally open 60 minutes prior to show time; it is recommended that all patrons arrive 45 minutes prior to show time in order to find parking.
  • The taking of photographs or recordings of any kind at any time during performances is prohibited, subject to the restrictions of the performers.
  • Outside food is not permitted in the theatre.
  • Patrons must follow the directions of the house staff at all times.
  • Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of house staff or as permitted by the artist.
  • Garde staff reserves the right to ask any patron creating a disturbance to leave the theater

Children

  • Children under the age of four are only permitted at performances for which age recommendations are listed on the event web page.
  • While on Garde premises, children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
  • All persons entering the theatre, no matter how young, must have a ticket and their own seat to comply with fire codes.
  • For the enjoyment of all, Garde staff reserves the right to ask parents/ guardians whose children cause disruptions during a performance to leave the theater.

Search/Inspection Policy

  • All persons and bags may be subject to search
  • Anyone exiting the building may be subject to search upon re-entry.
  • Some performances may require hand held metal detectors (wanding) or walk-through metal detectors in addition to bag checks upon entry.
  • Prohibited items include
    • Outside Food, Beverage and Alcohol
    • Helium balloons, beach balls or other projectiles
    • Backpacks or Large bags (larger than 12”x12”x6″); exceptions will be made for medically necessary items and diaper bags after proper inspection
    • Noisemakers or air horns
    • Animals (with the exception trained service animals)
    • Laser pointers
    • Illegal Drugs
    • Weapons of any kind (including props/toys) and not limited to firearms, knives, and chemical defense weapons such as pepper spray or mace are not permitted in the venue. In the event an illegal item is discovered, Garde staff will immediately notify the local law enforcement personnel.
    • Smoking of cigarettes, vapor smoking, or e-cigarettes
    • Any items deemed dangerous or inappropriate by Garde Management

Precautions Against Coronavirus (COVID-19)

The Garde Arts Center wants you to know that the safety of our audiences, artists, volunteers and staff is of paramount importance to us—especially during this period as we monitor information regarding the coronavirus and its potential impact. We will continue to monitor and evaluate our procedures according to the guidance of the CDC and local and State officials.

What is the Garde Arts Center doing to minimize risk?
In addition to communicating best health and safety practices to our internal and external guests, the Garde has implemented enhanced environmental cleaning throughout our venues and offices. This includes:

  • Additional cleaning of all frequently touched counter-tops, handrails, doorknobs, and armrests
  • Transition of all solvents to a disinfectant version in order to provide enhanced germ-free environments at every touch point
  • Addition of new hand sanitizers throughout all spaces
  • Installation of hands-free automated sink faucets, toilets, and towel dispensers

How can I best ensure my safety and that of others at the Garde Arts Center?
To further minimize risks for everyone, we ask that you please be mindful of the following:

  • Please follow all COVID protocol established for an individual event which may include masking, and proof of full vaccination or negative PCR test within 72 hours of the event.
  • Do not attend a Garde event if you are not feeling well and/or are exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath
  • Practice good respiratory etiquette (e.g., cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing)
  • Wash and/or sanitize your hands regularly
  • Keep yourself informed through the CDC website. For CT latest news go to https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus
  • Feel free to ask any questions or express your concerns to Garde staff or email housemanager@gardearts.org.