Use Cell Phone in a Theater, Expect a Fine

Cellular telephones won’t be ringing in Broadway theaters, movie houses or concert halls -- at least not legally -- as New York City restricts the use of mobile phones in an effort to improve the quality of life here.

The new law bans the use of mobile phones in “any indoor theater, library, museum, gallery, motion picture theater, concert hall or building in which theatrical, musical, dance, motion picture, lecture or other similar performances are exhibited.”

Passed by the City Council, which overrode a veto by Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, who said the ban was unenforceable, the law carries a fine of $50 for offenders who are caught and cited.