Legendary American stand-up comedian Dave Chappelle is set to light up Nairobi, with his performance at the Louis Leakey Auditorium on Wednesday, 29th May. The excitement in the air is undeniable, with tickets selling out just two hours after the Punchline Comedy Club announced the event. At Sh7,000 a pop, these tickets disappeared fast, showcasing Chappelle’s immense popularity and the eager anticipation surrounding his visit.
But if you’re one of the lucky ones attending, there’s one important thing you need to know: no cellphones zone. This rule that appears on the poster might sound strict, but there’s a good reason behind it.
Dave Chappelle has always been serious about his no cellphones policy at his shows. This rule was implemented in the US about a year and a half before the COVID-19 lockdown, as was confirmed by Naomi Dworman from the legendary Comedy Cellar in Greenwich Village.
Chappelle’s strict adherence to this rule was evident when he walked off stage at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, after catching someone recording his performance.
In an interview with Jimmy Kimmel about some years back, Chappelle explained his stance. He said, “It became a thing when I walk on stage I see a sea of cellphones, so I knew that anything I said in the room I was saying to everybody whether they were in the room or not.” He highlighted that comedians need the element of surprise. If someone shares his jokes before he gets to the next city, he has to come up with new material quickly, which can be challenging.
By keeping cellphones out of the venue, Chappelle ensures that each audience gets a unique, fresh, and exclusive experience. This way, his jokes and stories remain a surprise and are enjoyed in the moment, just as comedy should be.
So, when you head to the Louis Leakey Auditorium, remember to leave your phone behind or keep it switched off and stashed away. Get ready to enjoy an evening of laughter and brilliance from one of the world’s top comedians, without any distractions. It’s a rare chance to be fully present and experience Chappelle’s comedy the way it was meant to be – live and in the moment.
