Phone-free gigs a possible future for Irish live performances

Since the number of phone users at gigs has increased over the years, Irish audiences can expect to see more phone-free gigs on offer, as several large comedy acts and musicians have already banned mobiles.

The long recording times and flashing lights are often perceived as disturbing, which is why the ban is intended to improve the viewing experience.

A phone-free show does not mean that mobile phones are completely banned. However, audience members may be asked to lock their phones and place them in a box or pouch that they are allowed to keep with them.

Yondr pouch with a magnetic lock - Credit: Yondr

Yet this is nothing new at all. In October last year, for example, musician Bob Dylan completely banned the use of smartphones at his concert. This went over very well with fans and other musicians, which is why interest in phone-free gigs has increased.

According to Noel McHale, promoter with MCD Promotions, some high-profile acts from abroad, such as Chris Rock and Bob Dylan, have already used "Yondr" phone-locking pouches in Ireland to eliminate distractions and create a better atmosphere.

McHale says that there are a lot of people thinking "there's nothing wrong with taking out your phone, or even answering your phone during the comedy show, and not realising that not only are they affecting the performer, but they are annoying the people all around them as well."

A gig without phones is at the request of the artist, but it is expected that more will want phone-free-gigs even though they come with a price tag. According to McHale, the artists will start making it a condition of their performances, and promoters as well as venues will have to facilitate the phone-free gig.

I see Tommy Tiernan managed a successful phone-free gig at Vicar Street and this fills me with hope. Could we please make this a nationwide and maybe even a global thing? The presence of mobile phones has ruined live entertainment and I want them gone. #PhoneFreeGigsForAll

— Sophie Grenham 🇭🇰🇮🇪 (@sophiegrenham) March 20, 2023

Yondr CEO Graham thinks the "cancel culture" is the main reason for the increasing popularity of phone-free events.

"I think for comedians in particular, it is incredibly important that their material and what they do is take in fully in context," he added.

Artists that have used Yondr before include major acts like Dave Chappelle, Jack White, Joe Rogan, Bruno Mars, Madonna, and Adele.

Aside from the entertainment branch, Yondr pouches are also increasingly being used in Irish secondary schools to eliminate the interruption of phones in the classroom.