Lifting customer capacity limits ‘step in the right direction’ for Niagara casinos

Niagara Falls Review
 
Lifting customer capacity limits ‘step in the right direction’ for Niagara casinos
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Lifting customer capacity limits on businesses such as casinos is a “welcome step in the right direction” for the two sites in Niagara Falls.

“(Friday’s) announcement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford is a great one for Niagara Casinos,” said Niagara Casinos president Richard Taylor.

“The ability to be at full capacity and easing of physical distancing requirements is a welcome step in the right direction. We’re reviewing these new guidelines and are excited to continue welcoming back more of our outstanding guests and associates. As always, the safety of our guests and associates will remain our number one priority and our dedicated associates remain committed to providing the exceptional service you’re used to.”

Ontario plans to “incrementally” lift all COVID-19 safety measures — including vaccine passports and mask-wearing — by the end of March if all goes well, Ford said Friday.

The changes begin Monday, when customer capacity limits are lifted on restaurants, bars, gyms, casinos, bingo halls and indoor events spaces.

Ford’s announcement came hours after Niagara Casinos announced Fallsview Casino Resort’s intimate 1,500-seat Avalon Theatre will once again open its doors to live entertainment after dimming the lights and closing the curtains due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

After nearly two years of dark stage, entertainment offerings will be reintroduced starting with the holiday-themed production, Fallsview Casino’s Christmas Wonderland.

From Dec. 1 to 18, visitors can experience what’s described as a festive spectacle of world-class singers and dancers when the Avalon is transformed into a winter wonderland.

The New York-style production includes glittering costumes, themed sets and holiday classics including “White Christmas,” “Jingle Bells,” and “All I Want for Christmas is You.”

“We are so excited to welcome our devoted guests back to the beloved Avalon Theatre,” said Cathy Price, vice president of marketing for Niagara Casinos, in a press release.

“This has been a challenging time for many, and though these shows might feel a little different due to the restrictions, I’m confident it will deliver the entertainment experience we’ve all been waiting for.”

In addition to the Avalon Theatre, Price said Niagara Casinos is “very much looking forward” to opening the new 5,000-seat state-of-the-art entertainment centre, which was scheduled to open in April 2020 but was delayed due to the pandemic.

Niagara Casinos has not said when the new entertainment centre will open.

Niagara’s two casinos gradually started to reopen July 23 after 16 months of silenced slot machines. Niagara Casinos has roughly 4,000 employees.

In accordance with provincial public health mandates, guests will be required to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and wear a mask for the duration. Any purses or bags that are larger than 6.5 inches by 4.5 inches will not be allowed into the venue.

Tickets for Fallsview Casino’s Christmas Wonderland start at $25.

Tickets will be available Oct. 25, starting at noon, at www.ticketmaster.ca.