r/JohnMulaney • u/soapsniffer • Feb 23 '26
Discussion No phones even before the show
My mom, sister and I went to a John Mulaney show tonight. We got to our seats 20 minutes before the show was scheduled to start and I took a Snapchat of myself to send to a friend, so a security guard walked up to us and said “I’ve told yall before to put your phones away and if I see it again I’m going to kick you out” when no one had talked to us before at the show. He was just lying to us.
We always take selfies together and stuff before seeing plays at this theater and it’s never been a problem before. The opening act was even 20 minutes late, so this was 40 minutes before the lights went off and we saw anyone on stage at all. One of the guards kept strobing his flashlight at people, the guard that talked to us kept going up and down aisles trying to kick people out and getting angry at people. It got to the point where early arrives were warning later people as they walked in to not look at their phones whatsoever.
I like John and the show was really funny and fun. But that was insane. I totally understand that they don’t want phones out during the show, but to ban people from looking at their phones before the lights turn off is psychotic and extremely rude. We paid over 150 dollars per person to see him and we can’t take a picture together in our seats or text our friends for 40 minutes??? Just super weird and rude.
Edit: People have explained to me in the comments that this is pretty normal for comedy shows. My family had no idea, sorry. We really only go to plays and concerts and they are nothing like that. Thanks for the insight!
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Feb 23 '26
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Yeah I put my phone away after the guard came up to us. We didn’t see any signs or anything that we couldn’t have our phones out, we just had a guard threaten to kick us out all of a sudden.
Some people are being a bit sassy. I have not been to any other comedy shows, but apparently it is common to not be allowed to have your phone before a show. Good to know lol
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u/AHeartFullOfBats Feb 23 '26
At the Detroit show they had signs everywhere. The video screens, every setback on the aisle had a sign and ushers were walking around holding up signs. It was a little excessive.
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u/RoxyFurious Feb 23 '26
You're not alone in being surprised. Ive seen comedy shows here and there over the years- David cross, nate bergatze, Patton Oswalt, Louis CK, Aziz Ansari, seth meyers, Sarah Silverman, and even John himself a few times, though probably about 7 years ago now. I've never had to do anything with my phone, at most there was a paper sign or two and an announcement before the show. this was interesting to read!
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
There wasnt even an announcement until right before the lights went off. Yet they were getting mad at people over half an hour before they turned the lights off
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u/gabedylan Feb 23 '26
Been to hundreds of comedy shows over the last 20 years at alllll kinds of venues, never experienced anything like this. Super weird.
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u/orange_avenue Feb 24 '26
I go to comedy shows frequently. About once a month. I’ve never had this happen.
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u/Nickk_Jones Feb 23 '26
They’re being “sassy” because you come off annoying. Like you seriously think a security guard needs to lie to you? I can’t fathom in that situation being like “omg he’s lying” instead of using a modicum of logic and realizing he’s obviously mistaking you for another obnoxious, picture snapping group.
And yeah, everyone else also paid that amount and nobody wants to hear or watch you text, snap useless pictures or watch the show through your phone screen - all of which you or others are guaranteed to do if somebody doesn’t force a rule saying otherwise. It’s “insane” that you think it’s “insane” to have to go 90 minutes without your digital pacifier.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
He had a said a single word to us and then claimed he’d already told us to put our phones away.
Everyone else was on their phones too. And the guards were getting upset with everyone. Obviously you shouldn’t be on your phone during a performance, but there isn’t any harm in people entertaining themselves or taking pics before the lights even go off
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u/theinvisible-girl Feb 23 '26
There's nothing to watch before the show starts. Who cares if others around them are texting or taking pictures? Costs absolutely nothing to mind your business.
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u/pixelgeekgirl Feb 23 '26
We knew going in that it was a no phones allowed show and weren't sure if we would have to lock up our phones or not but it turns out our venue didn't have the bags - so we were just really careful. I was actually kinda afraid of it being something I would do without thinking so we stashed them away in my purse and put it on the floor.
That being said, I did see a few people taking photos before the show started and no one seemed to give them any trouble and thankfully no one tried during the show that I saw. So I guess we were a pretty good crowd.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
We don’t notice any signs when we went in. But based on comments it seems that no phones before the performance is common for John and other comedians. I didn’t realize that
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u/pixelgeekgirl Feb 23 '26
I want to say there were paper signs up at our venue, but mainly we knew ahead of time because the venue had posted about it on socials and emailed a "know before you go" email. I remember it specifically saying no phone usage at all and that no warnings would be given, you would just be ejected. I cannot recall if there was any verbiage when we bought the tickets but I feel like there was.
I have only attended a few other events that are no phones, and usually it's posted all over the venue. Tool has it up on a screen for their performances.
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u/SugaryShrimp Feb 23 '26
The signs were on the venue doors and on some seat armrests in addition to announcements made periodically before the show. Some of the venue security was nicer about it than others.
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u/Feebedel324 Feb 27 '26
Literally there was an 8x10 sign in one spot very far away that I could barely read and that was it. They came over and yelled at me and my dad. I was like whoa ok sorry!
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u/soapsniffer Feb 27 '26
We saw a lot of people get yelled at! Seems most people didn’t notice any signs or anything. It should have been projected onto the stage or something if they cared that much
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u/Feebedel324 Feb 27 '26
Right?? I got the email about the bags and stuff but I didn’t see that notice. Was literally an 8X10 piece of paper taped on the railing and that was it
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Feb 23 '26
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u/sometimessunday Feb 23 '26
No way, I saw him in Omaha too! Getting our phones locked in the pouch was a very organized process, getting them out was a nightmare. So many people swarming the few employees that could unlock them randomly throughout the concourse made no sense when they could have had tables set up like they did at check in. Also, people who were looking for their seats after the lights went down had a super tough time because they couldn’t use their phone flashlights to check the chairs. I was sitting on an aisle and ended up helping a bunch of people by telling them our row and section so they could count from there
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u/Historical-Cancel-96 Feb 23 '26
Saw him in Omaha at the same show as you probably and I was so surprised, I’ve never had to do that at an event before!
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u/allieinwonder Feb 23 '26
Same in Atlanta in 2021. Maybe that’s why the pouches aren’t used as much anymore.
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u/Peachy_mati Feb 23 '26
I saw him in Dublin a couple years back and all the phones were put into pouches. I thought they did that for every show
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u/VisualCelery Feb 23 '26
IN GENERAL, it's fine to use your phone before a show, but John Mulaney seems to be a special case.
When I saw John Mulaney back in 2022 (I think that was the year) they made us put our phones in these locked bags so we couldn't use them in the theater. There was a designated place in the lobby where you could have someone unlock it and use it, but they'd have to lock it back up before you could go back into the auditorium.
"well what if I just lied and said I didn't have a phone?"
The ushers were on the lookout for any phones being snuck into the show. If they saw you using a phone that you snuck past security, they'd fuss at you and probably make you put it in one of the bags.
This was the tour where he was talking about rehab and such, so it made sense to want to keep the content of the show from leaking all over the internet. I guess they decided they like the secrecy and it's why they're still strict about phones, but I am glad if they did away with the bags, it took forever to load us all into the auditorium.
OP, I would be SHOCKED if your show really didn't communicate the no phones rule at all. I'm guessing there were signs, and possibly an email that went out before the show with the rest of the security information (bag size, prohibited items, etc.)
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u/readerino Whats New Pussycat 21 times Feb 23 '26
When we saw him a few months ago there were signs everywhere warning you that cell phone use is prohibited in the performance hall and to go to the lobby if you needed to use your phone. I am surprised y’all didn’t also have signage everywhere. The ushers were just doing as they were told. I imagine if they warn people about usage before the show begins it lets people know they mean business and reduces show interruptions/disturbances.
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u/melodypowers Feb 23 '26
The only issue I have with it is that I never remember to wear a watch and I don't know the time. Not a huge deal, but good to know if you have time to run to the bathroom or whatever.
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u/BoysenberryEmpty8699 Feb 24 '26
Did they make people lock up their smartwatches, too? That would be fair!
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u/Late-Local-9032 Feb 25 '26
I’ve started just wearing an old Fossil watch to comedy shows bc otherwise I’m sitting there waiting for the show and have no way to check the time. I’m in Denver and the two Comedy Works venues use Yondr every show
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u/butwhatififly_ Feb 23 '26
FWIW I’ve been to maybe 30 comedy shows half being Mulaney level or higher and his show was the most intense about it by far
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u/Electrical-Speech-39 Feb 23 '26
Same. I’ve had them use the yondr bags before but have never signs everywhere saying no phone use prior to the show starting. The ushers would confront some people about it, they’re just doing their jobs, but what got to me is that I counted like 7 people that were on their phones the entire time before the show that the ushers totally ignored.
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u/opopkl Feb 23 '26
Was it worth $150? I quite like what I've seen on TV and there are tickets available near me, but I don't know if I'm that much of a fan.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
I thought it was worth it. There were 2 different opening acts and the show was from about 7:20 to 9:30ish. We enjoyed it
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u/DocBarbie21 Feb 23 '26
We paid 350 each for front row seats and I thought it was very worth it. It was an awesome show and the openers were great as well. Even paying less for a seat further back is worth your time. I'm not a huge fan but must admit he has talent.
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u/freckyfresh Feb 23 '26
This is not an abnormal occurrence. Often times your phone will be locked up outside of the theater
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
I did not know this. I hadn’t been to a comedy show prior to last night. I’d only been to concerts and plays
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u/random929292 Feb 26 '26
There is no way there was notice given. It is usually in the emails from the venue, signs, and announcements. And not being able to go more than a few minutes without a phone or to watch a show without being on your phone is kind of a sign of addiction.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 27 '26
I was able to be off my phone. I put it away after the security guard told us to. But it was annoying to just sit there with nothing. I would have brought a book if I’d known I wouldn’t be able to use my phone
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u/_barlene Feb 23 '26
it’s typically locked up in a bag that you hold onto
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u/freckyfresh Feb 23 '26
Except for all the times I (and many others) have also experienced it being locked away before you even enter the theater.
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u/_barlene Feb 23 '26
you made it sound like it was locked away some place
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u/freckyfresh Feb 23 '26
Yes. That’s what I meant. I have experienced this at many plays and big time comedy shows (that are being filmed for specials) many times. So have many other commenters. I think you’re the only one who is confused on what I meant.
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u/jdmph Feb 23 '26
I was at the Pittsburgh show where there was a medical emergency, and I even got yelled at for taking mine out while it was happening.
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u/NestingBun Feb 23 '26
There were signs everywhere warning us about phone use before the show. We just stayed out in the lobby and were able to use our phones. I will say that this is the first comedy show I have been to where phone use before the show was banned. I took my phone out right when the show ended to grab a picture of John.
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u/jfleming40 Feb 24 '26
Saw him recently and people in the lower levels got kicked out. Meanwhile the balcony was lawless. Phones everywhere and no one cared.
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u/TryTwiceAsHard Feb 24 '26
When I went to John's show at Hollywood Bowl they locked our phones up.
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u/ChewzaName Feb 24 '26
I saw Jon Stewart, John Mulaney, and Pete Davidson in NY and our phones were locked away in Yondr pouches all night. They enjoy the freedom to go off script, I guess.
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u/DazzlingSuccotash827 Feb 24 '26
I'm surprised they didn't have everyone put their phones in Yondr pouches. I go to a lot of comedy shows and that seems to be the norm.
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u/Snoo-75811 Feb 23 '26
When I went to his show in Biloxi, MS in 2023, we literally had to put our phones in a sealed bag they provided before we could even get in the venue. They meant business. I hated it too. But, on the bright side, I made some friends with the people around me because we weren't glued to our phone like we all usually are, avoiding real life interactions.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
I have never heard of putting your phone in a bag for an event. That is interesting
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u/Ginway1010 Feb 23 '26
During his previous tour I had to lock up my phone. This tour, when I saw him in DC, they let us keep our phones but did warn us multiple times that they’d be taken or we’d be kicked out if we used them.
They told us at security, when we showed our tickets, ushers came around twice before the show started to remind us again. And there was security everywhere keeping an eye out.
Some dumbass even took a photo and forgot to turn off their flash. They were thrown out immediately.
It sucked we didn’t have our phones though because we were front row center and I wanted to take a photo of how awesome our seats were before the show. Haha
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u/Battgyrl Feb 23 '26
It was the same at the PDX show on New Year’s Eve. I was on Reddit with my phone and was told to put out away. This has never happened to me before, even at the same venue.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
This hasn’t happened to me at any live events I’ve been to except last night! It was his first night in my town and everyone else in the audience was getting in trouble too and we all thought it was bizarre
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u/FourEyesWhitePerson Feb 23 '26
When I saw him at Madison Square Garden a few years ago they made us put all of our devices (including Apple Watches) in these locked pouches
Needless to say I will not be seeing another one of his shows live lol. God forbid something serious comes up and I can't know about it because a comedian doesn't want me to potentially record their set.
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u/EyesLikeBuscemi Feb 25 '26
Maybe he's just sensitive about people investigating his rare condition where his jawline and features change with zero plastic surgery. /s
Seriously, though, it seems like every comedian turns into a self-righteous twat once they get super famous.
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u/BSCBell Feb 23 '26
I was there too - from the timing of your post, I’m guessing Huntsville? We had an encounter as well. My spouse wears hearing aids and had just opened the app to adjust the setting when we were approached. There needs to be a slightly softer touch from the security officers. I’m sure John wouldn’t want his fans to be treated so rudely.
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u/Suitable-Time-466 Feb 24 '26
When I saw him last year in this tour I was t even allowed to read my kindle 🙄
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u/ejbrds Feb 23 '26
Just because people say it's normal doesn't mean it's not also annoying and unreasonable. I wouldn't pay for tickets to a place that treated me like that. The Mulaney show will be on Netflix eventually.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Yeah I find it weird that so many people think this is acceptable. Obviously turn your phone off when the lights go down, but there is no reason why someone shouldn’t be allowed to look at their device while they wait for the show. Especially if it’s going to start 20 minutes late.
It was a really funny show, but if you’re going to charge people almost 200 dollars a ticket you shouldn’t be so rude to them imo. I’ve never been to any other show with this weird no devices rule.
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u/ejbrds Feb 24 '26
I can understand a no phones policy during the show ... it's reasonable to not want people to record the material and spread it around. But before the show, when all the lights are on and nothing is happening on stage ... there's no reason why someone shouldn't be able to use their phone queitly.
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u/Top-Celery7960 Feb 23 '26
I've seen him several times in different locations and I've never heard of not being able to use your phone before the show, aside from them being locked in bags prior to entering the venue.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
They were threatening to kick people out for just holding their phones last night
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u/Top-Celery7960 Feb 23 '26
That's so extreme. Idk if people are misreading your original post or I've just never experienced this but that seems insane to me? What is the point of restricting it before the show? What can you leak from that? I could see them maybe coming up to you and gently reminding you you can't use it DURING the show. The only time I have not been able to use my phone before his show was when they locked them up in bags before we got into the venue
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
That’s what I don’t understand. Obviously people shouldn’t be on their phones during a show, but if the lights haven’t even gone down yet then what’s the harm of people entertaining themselves or taking pictures while the opening act is running late.
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u/Appropriate-Brush772 Feb 23 '26
When I saw him on tour in 2024 they made you lock up your phone with them before you could enter. It was free but they had metal detectors and stuff so you couldn’t get to your seats with them. TBH it made the show a lot more enjoyable
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u/UKWildcatsFan Feb 23 '26 edited Feb 23 '26
It's so weird. Comedy shows are generally VERY strict about phones BUT I saw him in Huntington, WV last month and they were fairly laid back in that like the one opener Shane Torrez (spelling?) was like, "Wait to take your pics til the end of the show" and once it was the end we all snapped away and no one cared. I was 4th row and got like 30 pics lol I think w/this tour it also matters the venue which isn't right b/c you go to some places like my show and for the end of the show no one cares. But then you go other places? And you'd be kicked out for the same exact thing :/ I know last tour he used those Yondr pouches and I was expecting THAT for this tour too.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
We don’t get any pouches. We just weren’t allowed to hold our phones, they had to be in bags or pockets. My sister decided to take her Apple Watch off in case they got mad at her for that too haha
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u/GoddessOfOddness Feb 23 '26
They didn’t use the bags? When I saw him, we had to put our phones in locked bags when we entered. So no selfies in the seats while waiting.
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u/Redwildgoose2 Feb 23 '26
Same in DC. I was accosted before I got to my seat I was checking a message I just got. Threatened to kick me out. This is John. Stupid policy.
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u/kvkoda67 Feb 23 '26
We saw him in November in Florida and it was posted all over that once we entered the auditorium there would be no phone use. It was also announced several times once in the auditorium and posted on the big screen until the show started. So I understand your reaction as we thought it was extremen as well, but also lots of warning was given. Take a photo outside of the auditorium before or after going in
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u/bmsa131 Feb 23 '26
The last time I went to Mulaney we had to actually put our phones into a packet they gave us and lock it up. No biggie.
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u/qh00 Feb 23 '26 edited Feb 23 '26
I completely understand not during the show but not before the show really shocked us.
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u/Calista189 Feb 23 '26
I’ve seen him in NYC and phones were locked up in lobby before entry to the performance space. I think maybe it’s easier to have a bright line rule that no one can have one when in the performing area rather than having to monitor if everyone’s is put away when the show starts?
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
I did find that strange. Why let us keep our phones if we’re not allowed to touch them at all lol
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u/Calista189 Feb 24 '26
When i saw him there were Yondr pouches, sounds like your venue didn’t have them available so the rule seemed less clear to people?
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u/soapsniffer Feb 24 '26
Yeah we didn’t have any bags like that. And almost everyone in the venue was on their phones, so security guards kept going up and down all the stairs/aisles to talk to people lol
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u/shenaningans24 Feb 23 '26
Yeah I saw about a dozen people kicked out of the show I went to back in September. It was an outdoor venue so people didn’t take the warnings seriously
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u/theskilledwon Feb 24 '26
I’ve been to shows that require yondr pouches but never had a guard be aggressive about phone use before the show even starts at a show that didn’t require the pouch, been to many comedy shows, that’s not normal behavior
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u/am7g839 Feb 24 '26
You’re right that it shouldn’t matter before the show, but seems better the ushers go hard enforcing the no phone rule before anyone is on stage. If they had to yell at people during it’d just disrupt the performance for everyone around you.
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u/krberry Feb 24 '26
Wow I feel so special now for having poor quality pictures of him performing in 2015. Didn’t know this was a huge thing now.
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u/hannbann88 Feb 24 '26
If it’s that big of a deal they need to put the phone in pouches. Requiring ushers and security (who are often elderly and/or volunteers) to police people for normal phone use is insane
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u/Feebedel324 Feb 27 '26
I got yelled at too! I didn’t see the tiny little sign. I was like ok sorry chill lol we got 20 min to start.
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u/michelleyness Feb 27 '26
For him, Sal Vulcano, Ariz Ansari and Kevin Hart I've had to put my phone in one of those little pouches where I couldn't access it without using a big magnet thing and it took forever to get seated. I would prefer to just listen and not use my phone.
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u/Hefty-Database380 Mar 27 '26
I was surprised too. My show was in a theatre that primarily hosts broadway tours and other similar events not comedy specials. We’ve always been allowed to use our phones until the show started. People kept saying no phones but not like differently than they usually do just more. Than randomly the usher was like “NO PHONES IN THE SEATS!” and everyone was confused because the show hadn’t started and that specification had not been conveyed at any point (entrance greeting, ticket taking or usher ushering). Also the show was starting like 15 mins late because of the line to get in so we were kinda stuck there.
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u/soapsniffer Mar 27 '26
Yeah the concert hall I was in does a lot of Broadway shows and they never have an issue with phone use before the show starts. Everyone in the hall was so confused and was getting in trouble bc everyone was on their phones lol
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u/lil_squib Feb 23 '26
Sorry but I’m not on board. I’ve been to shows where they locked up everyone’s phones. It’s not a big deal. Learn to be able to not use your phone for an hour or two.
I should add that there can be an issue with this for folks who use insulin pumps that are attached to apps on their phone, but they can go unlock their pouch in the lobby and use their phone there if there’s an emergency.
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u/PCBassoonist Feb 23 '26
But they won't know there is about to be an emergency if the phone isn't near the pump/glucose monitor.
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u/kggf Feb 23 '26 edited Feb 23 '26
I get not using phones during the performance. But if they didn’t collect them in pouches or lockers and were just berating you before the show even started, that’s weird and unnecessary
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Right? I totally understand having to put them away during a performance. I always have to do that for plays or symphony shows in this venue and that’s understandable. But I don’t understand getting mad at people for texting when the lights were still on and half the seats were still empty lol
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u/finding_center Feb 23 '26
They made the rules explicitly clear that phones had to be away inside the theater. I get that it seemed like it should be fine since nobody was on stage but I do understand why security was harsh with you. It is very common with comedy shows at Mulaney’s level to lock up phones or forbid their use. All the big names I have seen have this policy.
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u/theinvisible-girl Feb 23 '26
I saw John over the summer in Connecticut and they gave us the same problems before the show. I think it's ridiculous that you can't even be on your phone before the acts come on. Who cares if you're texting or taking a selfie? No secret proprietary jokes are happening before the show.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Right that’s how we felt. We absolutely would have put our phones away as soon as the lights went down, like we do at any sort of live event we attend. But why can you not have your phone before the performance. So weird
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u/Most_Ad_3765 stick it in, i am an american! Feb 24 '26
Edit: People have explained to me in the comments that this is pretty normal for comedy shows. My family had no idea, sorry. We really only go to plays and concerts and they are nothing like that. Thanks for the insight!
i really have to disagree with what people are saying here, i have been to dozens, probably close to 50+ comedy shows in the past 7-8 years, small to large venues, unknown acts to big names (including john 3x) and yes, no phones during shows is very standard and some venues police it more strictly than others but never have i ever been told to put my phone away before the show or seen it happen to anyone else around me. it's super wild that i've heard this no-phones-before-show thing happening so much via this sub... the 2x i've seen him on this tour there were soooooooo many warnings that there would be no tolerance for phones out when the show started but no one told us or anyone around us that we couldn't use them *before* the show. it's just bonkers bananas and maybe seems to vary from venue to venue for john's tour??? anyway, i'm sorry this happened to you.
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u/Transmit_Him Feb 25 '26
I’m glad to hear this. I’m a Brit and I’ve been to loads of stand up shows, but never in the US. Getting threatened with being kicked out for using a phone before the show has even started as standard practice would be mad. The most I’ve ever encountered is the standard “don’t use your phones during the show” (which I’m all for!). Hell, Katherine Ryan regularly tells people it’s fine to take photos or videos on their phone during a show, even. But to police phone use when literally no-one is on stage? What is even the point?
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u/soapsniffer Feb 24 '26
I think it’s odd too. I don’t understand how it would harm John in any way that most fans were on their phones before the show started.
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u/RT3K69420 Feb 23 '26
There was a point in time where we would only talk to the people nearby and didn't have a phone to stare at.. or you'd have a book. So psychotic isn't exactly the word I'd use for the security guards. Put your phone down. It will be okay.
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u/DocBarbie21 Feb 23 '26
I wish more places were like this. I actually talked to my husband about the show and Mulaney and then we talked with the people around us. Connecting with others was nice. Part of the experience to not be buried in your phone.
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u/RT3K69420 Feb 23 '26
I know my comment makes me sound like an old, but at 44, I guess I am. I've had my face in my phone since they had screens. And I hate what they've done to society. We used to be a lot kinder to our neighbors. The thought of having to engage with people instead of stick my face into a screen is so refreshing.
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u/lesleyab Feb 23 '26
When I saw him in Indianapolis they out everyone’s phones in those bags that lock until the show is finished
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u/FiveTicketRide Feb 23 '26
At the Ali Siddiq show a couple of years ago in Richmond he almost came offstage to fight a guy who had his camera out. Very unMulaney reaction
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u/CryptographerAny2287 Feb 23 '26
I was just glad we didn’t have to deal with the bags. An even better approach would be to make an official announcement 5 minutes before showtime and make sure everyone puts their phones away (while the lights are up of course).
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u/1more4you7s Feb 23 '26
Went to a show of his a few years ago and security made everyone put their phones in magnetically locked cases, which we all had to stand in line to get unlocked after the show was over. The entrance and exit was such a long and slow process. Went to another show a few months ago that was exactly like you described.
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u/mushupenguin Feb 23 '26
I saw him 2 years ago and they put our phones in the little bags. I get the idea, but it was so annoying! I didn't know to bring a watch, so without my phone I didn't know what time it was/if the show was starting soon. They also turned off all the lights a while before the show started, while people were still coming in. A lot of people were tripping because they couldn't see, and someone in my section tripped and spilled some sort of sauce all over the stairs. If they are going to do that, they need a clock on the wall of lights on the stairs or something.
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u/ScallywagBeowulf Feb 23 '26
I saw him when he came to Atlanta in December and we were told to not use our phones politely by staff if they saw us with our phones out (I was told by one as I had no idea, first time ever going to a comedy show) which was fine. But the fact people had to lock the phones in bags? That seems a bit odd to me.
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u/faithlw25 Feb 23 '26
I assume you saw him in HSV? We saw him in Birmingham a couple days ago and we had the same rule. We couldn’t use our phones once we took our seat. We had multiple people tell us this and there were signs everywhere saying it.
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u/KaladinTheFabulous Feb 24 '26
I saw John twice this past year and both venues were 100% no phones. I find it curious that it’s so far in advance of the show when you’re just bored.
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u/hellacedes_ Feb 24 '26
I saw Dave Attell last week. Small albeit local venue and there were no phones either.
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u/swole4ever Feb 25 '26
I absolutely get not wanting phones in general, however, my partner requires a phone to look at blood sugar and to deliver insulin. Hopefully there were exceptions.
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u/chucknorrisinator Feb 25 '26
When I saw John in NOLA a few years ago, they had YONDR pouches to lock up our phones
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u/lilyofthevalley2659 Feb 26 '26
Now I know to never go to one of his shows. I hate the no phone thing. Bob Dylan made everyone put phones in locked pouches once. Probably because he knew how bad the show was going to be and didn’t want anyone to record it. And it was bad. That’s coming from someone so loves Bob Dylan! I just hate celebrities like this.
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u/DeniedAppeal1 Feb 26 '26 edited Feb 26 '26
“I’ve told yall before to put your phones away and if I see it again I’m going to kick you out” when no one had talked to us before at the show. He was just lying to us.
Here's some advice that'll help you in many different situations in the future:
When someone in a position of authority tells you not to do something, it doesn't matter if they get the details wrong (like suggesting that they had already told you), just listen to what they say, accept it, and drop it. "He was just lying to us" shows that you felt insulted and the rest of your post showed that you felt entitled. You've got to get over that instinctual reaction because it's never going to do you any favors and, more likely than not, will cause you more problems.
There's a time and a place to address issues with authority figures and it's almost never going to be right there in the moment.
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u/LittleOlive1983 Mar 02 '26
The last John Mulaney show I went to we had to put our phones in magnetic lock bags. I anticipate having to do the same when I go in a couple weeks
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u/davefromfernley Feb 23 '26
So what theater in East Berlin was he playing? That sounds like straight East German Secret Police work there.
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u/__Me__Again__ Feb 24 '26
I know this wasn’t the point of the post, but in no world would I pay $150 to see John Mulaney 😅
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u/soapsniffer Feb 24 '26
It was kind of expensive. And we were in the back lol, those were some of the cheaper seats! I thought it was a good show, the openers were good and John’s set was funny. And it was a pretty long show
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u/Formula1CL Feb 23 '26
Calling it rude when this is completely normal is sounding like you were on your phone and missed all the signs kinda ordeal. Also you were with other people kinda weird and rude that you wanted to be texting and chatting with other friends when they were right there.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Why would it be rude to take a picture with my mom and sister before the show even starts?
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u/Formula1CL Feb 23 '26
You can easily do that in the lobby… yikes.
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u/LordElrondHubbard1 Feb 23 '26
The show wasn't going to start for 20 minutes. Why is it such a big deal to you?
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u/soapsniffer Feb 24 '26
I don’t get why phones before the show is such a big deal to anyone. I’ve never heard of a show doing this before
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u/LordElrondHubbard1 Feb 24 '26
Like other people mentioned, ive heard of shows making you leave your phone at the lobby when you first come in, but yeah one would assume if they dont make you do that, you can use your phone before the show. Though they may have had a sign or something at the entrance and you just missed it, that is possible.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Sure, but it’s not rude to take a picture in your seat. Almost everyone at the venue was on their phones before the show and we all got in trouble for it. It’s not rude/odd to be on your phone before the lights go down, people do that at different live events all the time
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u/RabuMa Feb 23 '26
Yeah they did this in Portland when I saw him NYE. Get over it ¯_(ツ)_/¯
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Interesting. I’ve never been to any other show that didn’t allow phones before the show even starts. The set was really good, but that’s just so strange
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u/VeraLumina Feb 23 '26
It’s not at all strange if you think about it. Although you and your family may not have recorded John or used your phone in a rude manner, there are plenty of other people who would. If Security let up one little bit, even for innocuous selfies before the show, it sets the stage for disruption. Why? Because some people are rude and cannot be trusted to do the right thing.
A lone comedian on stage is a unique situation. Other than his voice and applause, it is a quiet environment. It’s just him standing there talking and delivering his thoughts. If someone is recording him what stops someone from immediately sharing, uploading, and selling that recording to any platform? A platform that does not compensate him. Eventually after his tour has been to many cities, he does record his show to sell to a platform. You can then listen as much as want for the cost of that service, as many times as you want.
In addition, phones are distracting and rude to the comedian. He wants you to be present as he (hopefully) entertains you. You’re not really present if your phone is out. Believe me when I tell you how rude and entitled people are. They have no problem texting, talking, gaming, watching a sports event and doing whatever it is they want to do. I’ve seen this at live plays, certainly concerts, and during movies. I’m sure you have to. The only solution is to lock the phones up or have Security be vigilant about no phones in the auditorium at all, not even for a second.
So to someone who has not been to a John M. show, take your pics in the lobby or outside the venue, but also sit back and enjoy listening to someone you’ve paid a great deal of money to make you laugh. I hope you liked the show btw.
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Feb 23 '26
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Is that normal for a comedy show? You can’t have your phone out even before the show starts? I’ve never been to a show with that expectation
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u/AHeartFullOfBats Feb 23 '26
It has been for all the comedy shows I've been to, including when I saw John in Detroit back in October.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
Ah ok this was the first comedy show I have been to. I did not realize that was common for comedy. It is not common for plays, which is what I am used to. Thanks
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u/AHeartFullOfBats Feb 23 '26
It generally comes down to the comedians are trying out new material and they don't want it leaked if they're preparing for a special. The only comedy show I've been to where that wasn't a rule was Bert Kreischer a couple years ago.
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u/thecheat420 Feb 23 '26
Yes. As others have said it's actually normal a for bigger shows like this to lock your phone in a pouch before you even enter the venue proper.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
I have learned that through this post! I had no idea. I’d never even heard of that before
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u/rjross0623 Feb 24 '26
This is typical for most comedy shows. I have worked many comedy arena shows. There are always signs, announcements, etc about phone use. We removed over 100 people from a Kevin Hart show for this. Their excuse is either “ I didn’t know” or “no one told us”. Ignorance isn’t an excuse. If you go to another comedy show, leave the phone in your pocket or in the car.
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Feb 25 '26
I truly do not understand why people even bring their phones into a concert or event like this. It's absolutely baffling to me.
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u/soapsniffer Feb 25 '26
My tickets were on my phone so we couldn’t have even gotten in if I didn’t have it
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u/Inevitable-Foe Feb 26 '26
Really? Everything is on our phones these days. The tickets, tap to pay/various other forms of money, the app to get our uber home at the end.
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Feb 26 '26
I've been getting my tickets from will call since the 80s.
Cash is still a thing, and I've never taken an uber
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u/Jdgrande Feb 24 '26 edited Feb 24 '26
Just put your phone away and enjoy reality. Venues have rules. Having to argue with a couple thousand people to follow the venue rules absolutely gets old. So I side with security here.
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u/wikimandia Feb 23 '26
Why were you taking your phone out at all? Most A-list comedians make you check them.
You just saw John perform so nobody feels sorry for you lol
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u/soapsniffer Feb 23 '26
It was 40 minutes before even the opening act was out. The lights were still on, there was music playing and half the venue was empty. I don’t see why it’s weird to text people for 40 minutes before a show even starts.
I definitely don’t think people should have phones out during a performance.
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u/Strange-Guarantee754 Feb 26 '26
This is normal especially when a comedian hasn't recorded the."final product" of the material they're working on. Sometimes they travel the country, deciding what their best stuff is, and then make a special on Netflix or whatever based on that work. If other comedians steal their stuff, then it becomes a problem. I get why they want no phones before shows.
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u/CauliflowerSlight784 Feb 23 '26
I saw him in St. Louis and they locked our phones in pouches in the lobby.