MTC Launches New 'Good Vibrations' Campaign to End Cell Phone Distraction

In an effort to eliminate cell phone disruptions during performances, the Manitoba Theatre Centre is launching Good Vibrations, a campaign to encourage theatre patrons to turn off their cell phones in the theatre. Starting with the opening night performance of Pride and Prejudice, MTC will donate $5 to the Actors’ Fund of Canada for every cell phone-free performance during the 2008/09 season. This could result in a total donation of $1,300 to the Fund, if all of the 260 performances at both the John Hirsch Theatre at the MTC Mainstage and the Tom Hendry Theatre at the MTC Warehouse are presented without any cell phone-related disruptions.

David Hope of the Actors’ Fund was excited by MTC’s initiative. He said, “I'd love to see other theatres try this as well!”

Good Vibrations is aimed at eliminating the disruption caused not only by ringing cell phones during live performances, but also by text messaging and vibrating cell phones, which can create problems for the cast and crew and effect the enjoyment of other audience members. The idea was the brainchild of MTC’s Head Electrician, Benjamin Ross, to whom it occurred during the 2008 Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival when, despite announcements – both pre-recorded and live – prior to every show, very few of the more than 1,200 performances were free from cell phone disturbances.

“It seemed like no matter what we’ve tried in terms of pre-show cell phone announcements, funny, serious or even themed, some people still forget to turn off their phones before a performance,” said Ross. “This campaign is a way of offering positive reinforcement to audience members for helping us to present disruption-free performances.”

“At MTC, the best idea in the room prevails,” said Steven Schipper, MTC’s Artistic Director. “Ben’s innovative thinking will enhance the experience of theatre for artists and audiences alike. We hope this initiative will help solve a problem that has plagued theatres around the world, while benefiting a cause close to our hearts.”

MTC staff will track the progress of Good Vibrations throughout the season and will keep audiences updated in upcoming issues of the MTC program, Ovation. Please assist MTC in achieving a season of cell phone-free performances by turning off your cell phone while in the theatre.