Update (2/25/17): Comedian and actor Chris Rock has canceled his two shows this evening "due to illness," according to a news release from Live Nation Phoenix.
Rock was scheduled for two back-to-back shows Friday evening at Comerica Theatre.
Live Nation said the shows would be rescheduled and that a new date would be announced "as soon as possible." Tickets already purchased will be honored at the new show dates and refunds will be handled at point of sale.
Due to illness the Chris Rock shows scheduled tonight @ComericaTheatre are postponed. A new date will be announced. All tix will be honored
— Live Nation-Phoenix (@LiveNationPHX) February 25, 2017
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If you're headed to Chris Rock's "Total Blackout Tour" at Comerica Theatre in downtown Phoenix next weekend, be prepared to watch the show without your cell phone.
Cell phones, smart watches, cameras and recording devices will not be allowed out and about during the show. You will still be able to have your cell phone in your purse or pocket, but you will not be able to access it.
That is because before guests enter the venue, they will have to check their devices into a Yondr case, a pouch that holds your cell phone, and is then locked once you enter the venue.
Eric Larson, general manager for Comerica Theatre, said the cases are specifically being used for Chris Rock's show and that there are no plans to use it at other shows at the theatre.
Other comedians -- notably Dave Chappelle -- have used the devices in recent years as a way to prevent people from recording the show while also creating a distraction-free experience.
The added step will be something new for guests, especially here in the Valley. Larson and Live Nation Phoenix said they are sending emails to ticket holders and trying to get the word out to as many people as possible before the Feb. 25 shows.
Below is what you need to know:
What devices have to go in the Yondr case? Anything that can record video or audio and take pictures. That includes cell phones, cameras and smart watches.
What if you need to check your phone during the show? According to Larson, there will be two Yondr stations in the lobby where people will be able to unlock the case and check their phones. However, the case must be locked again to re-enter the show.
How much earlier to we need to get to the venue? The doors at Comerica Theatre will open 90 minutes before the first show, which is at 5 p.m. Normally the doors open an hour prior. There will be six corrals, one dedicated to those who have their tickets on their cell phone. Larson asked that guests print their tickets off at home.
What about when the show ends? How long will I have to wait to unlock my case? Larson said at the end of the show there will be multiple Yondr employees and theatre staff with the unlocking devices. It only takes a few seconds to unlock a case. Since there are back-to-back shows that night, it may be busier than normal as staff clears the theatre of the first show, while working to let in those wanting to see the second show.
Are the Yondr cases being used at other Comerica Theatre shows? Right now, according to Larson, the cases are only being used for Chris Rock's show. There are no plans to use it at any other Live Nation venues in Phoenix.
How many cases will there be? Larson said they are expecting to have 8,000 Yondr cases on site.
What if I don't want to put my phone in a case? You can either leave your phone at home or in the car, but if you want to enter the venue with it, you will have to lock it in a Yondr case. Larson said if people decide to not see the show over the Yondr case, they will offer guests a refund.
Do I get to take the case home? Nope.
