2024-08-07 22:06:27
TESTIMONIALS – After a thwarted attack plot and two arrests, the three dates that the singer was supposed to perform in the Austrian capital have been canceled. Some fans had spent thousands of euros to be there.
“This Wednesday evening, Margot learned the news like a guillotine. When she logged onto X around 10:30 PM, the young woman discovered the cancellation of the three concerts that international star Taylor Swift was to hold in Vienna on August 8, 9, and 10. A little earlier in the evening, the police announced the arrest in Austria of two individuals, including a 19-year-old young man, who had plans for Islamist attacks related to the American’s concerts. The Austrian promoter Barracuda Music decided to cancel the dates that evening. The three nights, sold out, were expected to host 170,000 people.
A choice that Margot, who was to soon travel to Vienna with her best friend to attend the concert, understands. “I feel a great sadness. But safety above all, I prefer to stay alive and not take any risks,” the young woman confides to Figaro. The two friends, aged 32 and 28, still plan to travel to the Austrian capital. A trip they have been planning for “more than a year,” Margot sighs. Altogether, between the ticket, the round-trip flight, and accommodation, the two friends had each spent more than 500 euros.
“I had to spend 1000 euros, if not more”
Like Margot, many fans expressed their disappointment on the social network X. For instance, Candice, 26, confides to Figaro that she spent “1000 euros or more” to travel to Vienna, pay for her concert ticket, and stay in the Austrian capital. Currently on site, the singer’s fan says she is “disgusted.” “It’s been a dream since my teenage years to see her, even if I understand because it’s better to be ‘safe’ than to suffer an attack.”
With her return ticket scheduled for Sunday, the young woman tries not to feel down. “According to the official Taylor Nation page, our tickets will normally be refunded,” details Candice. “And then I’m going to visit the city instead.” “Once again, I understand this decision.”
Céline, another “swiftie” (the name given to Taylor Swift fans, editor’s note) also shared her sadness in a tweet. “I know it’s better this way, so everyone stays safe, but we had planned our vacation around this concert, and this was the only time we could see her.” That very morning, the young woman was looking forward to going to Vienna with her boyfriend to attend her idol’s show. “It’s hard, it’s the second time in her entire career that she’s canceled a concert and she had no choice,” Margot reacts when mentioned about the many messages similar to hers.
Memories of the attack at the Ariana Grande concert in 2017
Among these fans, now in their twenties, most are, like Margot, Candice, or Céline, relieved despite their disappointment. Many still remember the attack that took place in 2017 outside another major American pop star’s concert, Ariana Grande. That year, an attack occurred at the end of the singer’s performance at Manchester Arena. Nearly twenty-three people (including the terrorist) lost their lives. Among the victims were many teenagers. 237 others were injured, including 28 seriously.
DANNY LAWSON / AFP
In shock, the American held, ten days later, another concert in tribute to the victims. Several stars attended, including the band Coldplay, singer Justin Bieber, and Liam Gallagher, the frontman of Oasis. Nearly 11 million people watched the concert’s broadcast, including the teenagers who were fans of Taylor Swift at that time. “What happened in the last few hours made me think of that event, but fortunately for us, there was nothing because they were arrested in time,” Candice shared, feeling relieved.
On the social network TikTok, other fans are filming themselves, admitting on camera that they were anxious about attending the concerts and the possibility of an attack occurring. “At the time, it really affected me, especially given the age of the victims,” Margot also acknowledges. “We shouldn’t risk our lives by going to a concert,” concludes the young woman, still under the emotional aftermath.
Concert Safety and Its Impact on Fan Experiences
In light of the recent cancellation of Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated concerts in Vienna due to foiled terrorist threats, the discussion surrounding concert safety has never been more relevant. As fans like Margot and Candice express their disappointment over the lost opportunity, a deeper trend emerges: the growing importance of safety measures at large events.
Heightened Security Measures
As incidents of violence at concerts raise alarm, future events may see an increase in security protocols. Enhanced screening procedures, the use of metal detectors, and the presence of additional law enforcement personnel are likely to become standard practice. Fans may need to adjust to longer wait times as venues strive to ensure their safety, but many will agree that these measures are necessary.
Changing Fan Expectations
The emotional impact of potential threats has shifted how fans perceive live events. Many are now prioritizing safety over the experience itself. Candice’s sentiment about preferring safety over attendance reflects a broader trend where fans are willing to forego concerts if they feel that security isn’t adequately addressed. This may lead to a rise in virtual concert experiences, allowing fans to enjoy performances from the safety of their homes without sacrificing the thrill of live music.
The Role of Social Media
Social media platforms are becoming a pivotal space for fans to express their feelings and connect with one another during crises. The swift sharing of experiences, such as those seen on X and TikTok, highlights a collective response that can shape public opinion and pressure event organizers to prioritize safety. In the near future, we may witness a trend where fan communities take an active role in voicing safety concerns and cooperation with organizers to foster safer environments.
The Memory of Past Tragedies
Memories of past incidents, like the tragic bombing at Ariana Grande’s concert in Manchester, continue to resonate with concertgoers. These recollections underline the need for ongoing dialogue about safety standards within the music industry. Concert organizers will need to not only react to incidents but proactively implement strategies to prevent them, including mental health support for fans who may now associate live events with fear.
Conclusion: The Future of Concerts
As we look to the future, the intersection of safety and the live music experience will likely redefine how both artists and fans engage with concerts. With a concert landscape increasingly shaped by external threats, the focus will inevitably shift towards creating a secure environment where music enthusiasts can fully immerse themselves in the joy of live performances without fear.