New Provincial Restrictions Effective November 13

12 November 2020

Clarification (Nov. 13, 5:00 p.m.): U of A singing, dance and theatre activities not affected by new restrictions 

Since the announcement yesterday, the Government of Alberta has added additional information to their new restriction around suspension of singing, dance, and theatre activities; it does not apply to schools, as additional measures are in place to reduce the risk for staff and students. Therefore, at this time Fall 2020 singing, dance, and theatre activities that are a part of approved in-person courses will continue unaffected by recent provincial restrictions.

Posted: November 12, 7:00 p.m.

This afternoon the Premier announced a number of new COVID-19 health restrictions, including some that apply specifically to Edmonton and surrounding areas. These restrictions will impact a number of activities that had been previously planned to take place at the U of A.

The new restrictions will be in place between November 13 - 27

The restrictions impacting activities at the U of A include the following: 

Suspension of Indoor Group Fitness and Team Sports

This will apply to fitness classes, dance classes, club sports, curling leagues, and intramural sports activities, and will lead to their suspension until at least November 27. Rentals for team sports activities will also be suspended in all U of A facilities. The province has indicated that, based on our existing health and safety precautions, Varsity Athletics activities are allowed to continue as planned at this time. Fitness centres currently open at the U of A will remain open for individual training. The province has indicated that activities including tennis and gymnastics will also be allowed to continue. For the latest information, please visit the Campus & Community Recreation website.

Suspension of Singing, Dance, and Theatre Activities

This will apply to in-person courses currently underway that include singing, dance, or theatre performance. Any impacted instructors and students will be contacted directly before classes next week, and will implement their remote teaching plans as needed.

Updates regarding upcoming Studio Theatre rehearsals will be shared with the cast and crew.

15 Person Limit on Social Gatherings

Regardless of whether or not a gathering is indoors or out, a limit of 15 people is in place. The province has also recommended the voluntary measure of avoiding social gatherings inside your home or outside of your community. Social gatherings do NOT include university courses.

Number of People in Work Area

Based on the provincial recommendation to reduce the number of employees in the workplace at one time, wherever possible U of A faculty and staff who have been working on campus are encouraged to work remotely for the next two weeks. This does not apply to individuals in positions that can only be achieved through in-person activity, such as grounds and maintenance. Please check with your supervisor to see if you should make the temporary switch to remote work.


To learn more about the Government of Alberta’s latest public health measures, visit their COVID-19 info for Albertans website.