Audiences to be asked to limit conversations during performances at Villa Gaiety

Extra security to be used during high capacity events

Audiences at the Villa Gaiety will be asked to limit conversation during performances.

It comes after some raised concerns over the amount of chatter during recent shows.

Complaints were made last year by a number of those attending Paolo Nutini's set at the Royal Hall.

Following that event, the venue appealed for people going to see Squeeze the following week to be considerate of both the performances and other audience members.

But, some have commented on social media since about the impact of those in the crowd talking during shows.

Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse raised the issue in a Tynwald written question, asking the education, sport and culture minister what consideration is being given to resolving these concerns.

In response, Daphne Caine says her department will be promoting audience awareness regarding the impact of conversations.

This includes looking at introducing a sound recording to be played before the start of a live performance to remind those in attendance to limit their conversations.

More security staff will also be on duty for high capacity events to help mitigate such instances, while the sound system will be carefully monitored for quality and safe volume levels.

Minister Caine says feedback from audiences is monitored, and it's hoped these planned changes will have a positive impact.