Coca-Cola Music Hall has become the first venue in Puerto Rico to implement a phone-free event system, debuting the concept during comedian Marcello Hernández’s performances in April. The format will be used again May 8 for actor and comedian Chris Tucker.
The initiative is designed to enhance audience engagement by minimizing distractions and safeguarding exclusive content presented during live performances.
“This type of experience allows the audience to fully enjoy the show, keeping their attention on the stage while protecting content for ticket holders,” said Arleene Pérez, general manager of the venue. “While it is new in Puerto Rico, it is widely used in venues across the United States.”
Under the system, attendees are required to place mobile phones, smartwatches, and other electronic devices into specially designed locked pouches upon arrival. Guests retain possession of their devices at all times but may only access them in designated phone-use areas within the facility. Devices must be returned to the pouch before reentering the performance space.
According to Pérez, the transition during Hernández’s shows was smooth. “The audience adapted quickly, and we encountered no issues,” she said, noting that the venue increased staffing levels to support the rollout, adding 30 ushers and 25 additional security personnel.
Exit times for retrieving devices averaged 16 minutes on the first night and 13 minutes on the second, demonstrating the system’s efficiency, Pérez added.
The venue indicated that the phone-free format will continue to be implemented for performances when required by artists or production teams. At the conclusion of each event, staff members unlock all pouches before guests exit.
Coca-Cola Music Hall also operates as a fully cashless venue, encouraging guests to bring credit or debit cards for purchases of food, beverages, and merchandise.
Attendees place their mobile devices in secured pouches as part of the phone-free event system implemented at Coca-Cola Music Hall, the first venue in Puerto Rico to adopt the format.
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