Nightclub bans phones on the dancefloor

By Filipa Gaspar

A nightclub will open next month where phones are banned on the dancefloor - so revellers can "feel comfortable letting go" without fear of appearing on Instagram.

Announcing the plans on Friday (August 15), Moon Club - located in trendy St Paul's, Bristol - said mobile use will be allowed elsewhere in the building.

But phones are strictly prohibited on the dance floor as the space is "for dancing, not filming", it said - and anyone who ignores the rules may be kicked out.

A number of clubs and live event venues have put restrictions on mobile use in recent years, from outright bans to the use of stickers on cameras.

Posting on Instagram, Moon Club said: "When we open our doors in September, we'll be launching with a clear approach to nightlife. The dance floor is for dancing, not filming.

"From day one, filming on the dance floor will not be permitted. Phones can still be used in other parts of the venue, but in the crowds, were asking everyone to be present and enjoy the moment.

"Guests who ignore the policy may be asked to leave. The policy isn't about being restrictive for the sake of it. It's about protecting the atmosphere that makes a club special.

"Too often, dance floors are lit up by phone screens instead of people connecting with each other and the music. We want Moon Club to be a place where the focus is on the experience, the sound, and the energy in the room.

"We believe in creating a space where everyone feels comfortable letting go without it ending up in a stranger's Instagram story. This is about respect for the crowd, the artists, and the night itself."

The post continues: "Our in-house team will film and photograph certain nights and the content may be shared on Moon Club's social channels after the event. That way, you can relive the moments without missing them in the first place.

"This approach puts Moon Club alongside a growing number of clubs and international nightlife spaces that are rethinking phone use.

"By keeping screens off the dance floor, we're joining a shift towards more immersive, connected club experiences. We thank you for your understanding."

The post received a mixed reaction in the comments section.

One person said: "Don’t get me wrong - love the thought behind this BUT my bread and butter income comes from designing venue x show visuals.

"When the audience films content and shares it - it helps both the brands get a larger audience as well as it selfishly keeps my food on the table.

"I'm always going to be pro phones as it helps the industry in my opinion."

Another posted: "Fully back this idea. I never use my phone on a Dancefloor really anyway so makes little difference to me!"

A third added: "I think a couple clips to remember the event are fair game. 20-30 seconds max.

"But those that just stand there on their phone all night may as well not be there to begin with."

Moon Club - which will have a 220-person capacity and is operating under the umbrella of the famed Bristol club Lakota - is expected to open in September.