New York bans mobiles in theatres

New York theatregoers can hope for quieter evenings

After banning smoking in bars and restaurants, New York is tackling what many see as another major public annoyance.

From April, requests to switch off your mobile phone before a play or concert begins will be backed up with the threat of a $50 fine.

Anyone making a call, talking on their mobile, or even being rung during the performance will be breaking the law.

New York is believed to be the first major US city to bring in such legislation.

But Mayor Michael Bloomberg opposed the move, saying such a law would be impossible to enforce.

He had tried to veto the law, but he was overruled by a 38-5 vote in the New York City Council.

Lobbies are OK

"It's a real quality of life issue," said Councilman Phil Reed, the main sponsor of the new law.

Anyone taking a call in the theatre faces a $50 fine

"And because it would only apply during the performance, it's not a lot to ask of people to do."

The new law applies to concerts, cinemas, theatres, as well as museums and libraries.

The use of audible pagers and bleepers is also banned.

People will still be allowed to make calls from their mobiles during the interval and in theatre lobbies.

Mayor Bloomberg had said such a law was unnecessary.

"We do not hesitate to shush," he said, arguing for "less formal means" to ensure that audiences remain quiet during performances.

The mobile phone industry also opposed the law.

"The city cannot legislate courtesy and common sense," said Thomas Wheeler, president of the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association.

He noted that mobile phones were only one potential source of boorish behaviour in the theatre.

"Talking during performances, singing aloud - except where sanctioned - unwrapping candy and cough drops" were equally likely to cause annoyance, he said.

But inveterate mobile phone users can still chatter during the action if they go to a stadium. The new ban does not cover sporting events.