I see both sides of it. On one hand, being grateful that we're getting an HHN at all when cases are even worse than they were at the same time last year and the event was canceled (IMO, holding an event like this with pre-pandemic crowds and no masks required is asking for disaster). And being positive about the vinyl.It is really dispiriting and and concerning to see so many people - including some performers - champion the vinyl and denounce those that are criticizing/frustrated with it. If you're happy because it'll reduce guest-on-perfomer contact, that's one thing, but I'm seeing folks believe it will help protect them from COVID.
We have really failed to communicate how this thing works and spreads.
For what it's worth, obviously having face characters in masks is not going to be ideal. That, however, is the right call and I'm glad they're doing it. It's an acceptable compromise that will improve safety.
On the other hand, speaking honestly about the vinyl: it sucks and will likely make airflow even worse, and will probably reduce the effectiveness of many scares. There has to be a give and take, weigh each side of things and put them into perspective.