Plague of Phones in Live Shows
How Smartphones Disrupt the Magic and Mentalism Experience
Live performances, particularly those of magic and mentalism, rely heavily on audience interaction and undivided attention. However, in recent years, an uninvited guest has infiltrated theaters: the smartphone. This digital presence disrupts the flow and impact of shows, affecting how they’re received by the audience. Here, we’ll explore the various nuisances caused by smartphone use in these events and consider possible solutions.
The Downsides of Smartphones During a Live Performance
1. Missing the Magic
Magic and mentalism effects are often crafted as visual and psychological puzzles that require constant attention. Unfortunately, when some audience members glance down at their phones to check notifications or answer messages, they miss crucial moments. Essential parts of the trick, hints, and even the climax can go unnoticed, leaving them confused and diminishing their overall satisfaction. This lack of engagement weakens the magical impact and leaves spectators out of the experience.
2. Lack of Applause
One of the most rewarding moments for a performer is the applause. But more and more, audiences are holding their phones in one hand, if not both, making it harder for them to applaud spontaneously. This lack of physical reaction not only affects the performer’s morale but also weakens the interactive bond between the stage and the audience. In magic and mentalism, where artists rely on audience enthusiasm to reinforce effects, this lack of response can be particularly unsettling.
3. Difficulty for Guests on Stage
When an audience member is invited on stage to participate, it’s essential that they interact fully with the performer and handle props smoothly. But often, guests bring their phones with them, making it challenging to follow instructions and sometimes leading to awkward moments. A distracted guest can struggle to handle a deck of cards or an essential prop, disrupting the intended effect.
4. Ignoring No-Recording Rules
Despite repeated instructions, many audience members continue filming or photographing the show. In the world of magic, where mystery is the core of the performance, recording can break the secrecy and risk revealing the performer’s methods. Magic, which relies on surprise, loses its impact when routines freely circulate on social media.
5. Live Streaming on Social Media
The temptation for some audience members to share their experience live on social media is strong. However, these broadcasts, often accompanied by comments and typing sounds, create auditory and visual distractions for those trying to focus on the performance. This divides the attention of both the spectator and, indirectly, others in the audience.
6. Noise from Phones
Notification sounds, keyboard clicks, and even vibrations add up to a stream of background noise that disrupts the ambiance of a magic or mentalism show. Unlike rock concerts, where background noise is already intense, magic performances often rely on near-complete silence to heighten dramatic effect. Each “ping” or buzz becomes an interruption that shatters the suspense and immersion carefully built by the performer.
Solutions for Limiting Smartphone Use During Performances
1. Announcements Before the Show
A polite reminder before the show can effectively raise audience awareness of the rules. However, even the clearest warnings may not deter spectators most attached to their devices.
2. Security Personnel
In some venues, security personnel remind attendees to put their phones away. However, this approach can feel heavy-handed and might create tension between the audience and staff, further disrupting the atmosphere.
3. Yondr Pouches
Yondr pouches, which lock phones for the show’s duration, have become popular solutions in some comedy and music events. They ensure a phone-free performance, but their use can feel intrusive. For audiences not used to this restriction, it might create frustration or even resentment.
The Dilemma of Solutions: Balancing Security and Audience Experience
Although effective, these solutions could provoke resistance from audiences who might interpret such measures as an infringement on their freedom. Additionally, in magic and mentalism shows, where interaction and audience buy-in are essential, this tension could undermine the artist’s connection with the crowd.
Hoping for Collective Awareness
Smartphone popularity shows no signs of slowing, and its impact on behavior in public spaces is evident. However, just as attitudes toward smoking have evolved over time (people no longer smoke in closed shared spaces), we can hope society will eventually recognize the impact of this digital addiction and learn to be more respectful during live events. Perhaps one day, spectators will naturally regain the ability to immerse themselves fully in the present moment by setting their devices aside.
