In a press release today, the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau announced a new set of security screening procedures for all ticketed live performances at Robinson Center, First Security Ampitheater and the Statehouse Convention Center, to be launched January 21, when Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit play a show at Robinson Center Performance Hall.

Walk-through magnetometers, the release stated, will be “mandatory for all live performances at LRCVB-managed properties.”

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LRCVB President & CEO Gretchen Hall said:

These new security procedures have become common practice in public assembly venues, and many promoters are requiring these type of security measures be in place. While there is no perfect system, patron safety is our number one priority and concern. We strive to insure our patrons have an enjoyable and safe experience at events in our managed facilities. We hope all our patrons will be patient as our staff adapts to this ‘new normal’ that we all face.”


That “new normal” means that guests are advised to arrive early to clear security, and are encouraged to bring only necessary items into the performance, with exceptions for medically necessary items, the release said. Expectant mothers and people with pacemakers will be scanned with a handheld device.

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Items not allowed?

“Backpacks, bags larger than 14” x 14” x 6”, more than one bag, weapons of any kind, knives of any kind, pepper spray/mace, fireworks or pyrotechnics of any kind, outside food and beverage, flasks, coolers, drugs, illegal substances, skateboards, rollerblades, bicycles, helmets, beach balls, Frisbees, streamers, confetti, laptop/tablet computers, 2-way radios, cameras, laser pointers, flashlights, balloons, permanent markers, spray paint, noise making devices, audio or video recording devices (except cell phones and authorized media equipment), signs/flags/banners, selfie sticks, chains, spikes, and any other item that may be deemed by event organizers and/or staff as a potential safety or security threat.”

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