Audiences to lock away devices for phone-free performance!
There’s an extra-special buzz at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast this week, as the venue prepares for two back-to-back performances by legendary musician Bob Dylan.
The 84-year-old legend is touring his last album, Rough and Rowdy Ways released in 2020. Tickets for the two gigs on Wednesday (19 November) and Thursday (20 November) sold out in minutes when they were released in July.
As the tour stands, after Belfast, there are only three remaining Irish gigs lined up. The star recently teased on his X (Twitter) account the possibility of additional dates in 2026, although these are as yet unconfirmed.
Among those expected to fill the Waterfront Hall will be a number of Dylan’s global “super-fans” who travel the world to see him perform.
For the venue team, who have already worked with major artists including Dermot Kennedy, JADE and Van Morrison this year, the anticipation surrounding Dylan’s arrival is something truly unique.
Pete McKevitt, Head of Entertainment at Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, said,
We work with top international artists all the time, but Bob Dylan is probably one of the most influential musicians of all time.
"He’s definitely one of the biggest names we’ve ever had here. People understand that opportunities to be in the presence of an artist like this are very, very few and far between, so it’s no surprise that it sold out so fast.”
While the venue is experienced in delivering high-profile events, the team is remaining tight-lipped on any specific preparations or backstage requests.
Lisa Black, Senior Event Manager at Waterfront Hall and Ulster Hall, said,
"Every artist who comes through our doors benefits from the highest standards of preparation, and our team are at the top of their game."
We’ve put exceptional care into preparing for this show, working closely with the promoter to make sure every detail is in place.
"We want every artist to feel at home here, so we know that the moment they step onto our stage, they will feel the full force of that unique Belfast welcome and musical appreciation that’s like no other place in the world.”
One of the more unusual experiences for the fans is that all audience members will be asked to lock their mobile devices away in a special pouch, known as “Yondr”.
Pete McKevitt continues:
We have used Yondr for many of the big comedy gigs, and audiences understand that this is important to protect the integrity of the material, so that it lands in the live setting and gets the optimum response.
“For a performance of the significance of Bob Dylan, audiences are encouraged to be in the moment and immerse themselves in the experience, rather than focusing on recording it or taking photos. It somehow makes it a more human connection between the artist and the audience – something that’s such a big part of Dylan’s poetic performance. These two Belfast audiences will be in a small handful of fans worldwide to get the opportunity to see Bob Dylan live and there’s something really special in keeping that for yourself.”
The magnetic Yondr pouches will be provided on entry to the venue and phones or other recording devices are to be locked inside. Fans keep the pouches with them and they are unlocked at the end of the gig.
Information for concertgoers is available on the waterfront website:
