Local Theatrical Performance Affected by COVID-19
Those hoping to solve the whodunit of the Big South Fork Scenic Railway’s (BSFSRY) Murder Mystery Dinner Train will have to wait a bit since the two remaining summer performances of the special event have been cancelled due to one of the lead performers testing positive for COVID-19.
By Eugenia Jones
eugenia@highland.net
Those hoping to solve the whodunit of the Big South Fork Scenic Railway’s (BSFSRY) Murder Mystery Dinner Train will have to wait a bit since the two remaining summer performances of the special event have been cancelled due to one of the lead performers testing positive for COVID-19.
The Big South Fork Scenic Railway was notified on Thursday, July 30, 2020 that an actor participating in the BSFSRY Murder Mystery Dinner and Show tested positive for COVID-19. The actor, who does not live in McCreary County, last performed on Saturday, July 25. Ninety-two passengers were on board during that excursion with thirteen actors performing. BSFSRY Director Rachel Hinkle noted it has not been determined if the patient contracted COVID-19 while on site at the BSFSRY or even while in McCreary County.
Hinkle emphasized cancellation of the Murder Mystery Dinner Train is due to the COVID-19 positive actor having an irreplaceable part of the show and not because of a Health Department mandate. Regular excursions on the BSFSRY continue as planned.
After learning about the positive test and consulting with McCreary County Heritage Foundation Board Members and the Health Department, Hinkle shared information in a written release. According to the release, the health department did not require actors, employees, or attendees of previous Murder Mystery shows to self-quarantine or be tested for COVID-19. Hinkle explained the guidelines used to determine mandatory quarantine and testing. First, a date is determined as to when a positive patient first exhibits symptoms. Next, backing up two days prior to the onset of symptoms, notification is given to individuals having had direct contact with the positive patient for ten minutes or longer, with or without facemask, and with or without symptoms during the two day window. Anyone in contact with the patient within that time frame is required to self-isolate and be tested. Hinkle noted anyone concerned about the situation may voluntarily test.
While the BSFSRY had previously been following CDC guidance regarding social distancing and sanitation, additional measures have now been put into place. Temperature checks of employees are no longer performed at home but instead are taken and recorded on site. Per Health Department guidelines, anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or higher is required to return home and not remain on site or around guests. Additional cleaning supplies and disinfectants have been ordered to ensure necessary cleaning products are kept in stock to keep commonly touched surfaces sanitized.
Hinkle said all train cars are running open air at half capacity (less than 25 per car) and dining at Barthel is outside. Regular cleaning of the train occurs before/after excursions. Hinkle also noted BSFSRY employees have, per the Health Department, encouraged patron compliance regarding the use of masks-however, avoiding confrontation while doing so. According to Hinkle, staff have had numerous conversations with patrons regarding CDC compliance.
Personnel from the McCreary County Health Department confirmed information from the release and noted the case and contact investigation has been completed. Individuals affected would have been contacted by the health department during that investigation.
