Tommy Tiernan has become the first mainstream comedian in Ireland to ban mobile phones at his gigs.
The comedian spoke on a recent episode of The Tommy, Hector and Laurita podcast about his decision to remove phones from his performances. He introduced Yondr, a patented system which requires people to lock their phones into pouches, at his 'Tomfoolery' show in Vicar Street.
Tommy explained that the phones are sealed up at the beginning of a gig, with a Yondr staff member unlocking phones from their pouches once the gig has concluded. Tommy said the policy helped create a "fantastic" atmosphere during his Vicar Street run.
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He told co-hosts Hector and Laurita: "People are notified beforehand to say this will be in operation. We hire in extra staff for the bags, it's not cheap- you can carry the phone yourself in the bag but only staff can open it."
Several American comedians already employ the tactic at their gigs, including Kevin Hart and Chris Rock. Tommy became inspired to use Yondr after attending a Bob Dylan gig in the 3Arena, where phones were not in use.
Tommy said that no-one complained about the policy while attending the night out, although people with specific needs were given wristbands indicating they needed phones on their person . His opening act John Colleary said he could "feel the attention" from the audience as a result of the move.
Yondr has been employed by numerous artists and performers globally to enhance the quality of their shows. Tommy purchased approximately 1,300 bags ahead of his Vicar Street run, which cost anywhere between €14 and €30 per pouch, depending on size.
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