Mobile Phones in Theatre

As time goes by... a lot of common courtesy and theatre ettiquette behaviour in our theatres unfortunately have been found to dwindle away over time...

One very common occurrence, we all unfortunately seem to experience every time we go to see a show these days - WHO THE HELL left their mobile phone on - and how dare he/she even answer it.

I would like to suggest to all people and clubs that we do our best to educate our audiences, that - yes - you are to either leave your mobile phone in the car or at home or you switch it OFF. Alot of people think they're doing the right thing by even switching their mobile to silent, and 9 times out 10 these patrons are unaware that even a text message can interfere with backstage tech equipment.

Recently i was flying between A and B - and the mysterious voice of the captain or crew member over the infight pa, mentions - all mobile phones are to be switched off. Most theatres prepare a similar message to their patrons... if you were on a plane - you would be a major nitwit to have your phone on (you wouldn't even consider the silent option)... so why are our audiences ignoring this simple message from our theatres??? Alright - the consequences are not so dire... however, there is nothing worse for an actor to be interrupted by one of the millions of mobile ringtones - there is nothing worse than your concentration being taken away from a brilliant piece of theatre, only to find yourself zoning in on the culprit.

Let's make 2006 a year for educating our lovely patrons - mobile awareness in our theatres - a sign on our doors, a note in the program, a message before the curtain rises... etc.

If you are a doctor or someone of similar position who is required to be contactable at all times, a small discussion with your venue and box office upon entering the premises can arrange a minder for your phone, who is not in the auditorium and able to quietly approach you during the show if required upon emergency.

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