As nations begin to mobilise in response to the tragic terror attacks in Paris earlier this month, the live music industry is doing likewise, with touring companies renewing their commitments to providing a secure experience for punters.
The attacks have certainly taken their toll on Paris’ music scene. As The Express Tribune reports, ticket sales for concerts in Paris have fallen by around 80 percent in the weeks since the French capital came under siege.
But the attacks have sent shockwaves through the Australian music community as well. As The Music Network reports, Australian and New Zealand promoters are ramping up security for upcoming large-scale shows.
Frontier Touring, who will soon be bringing Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran to Australia, have banned backpacks and large bags from performances, saying “appropriate measures at all events are undertaken with consideration of the act, the venue and the circumstances at the time”.
Meanwhile, veteran promoter Michael Chugg told The Music Network that Chugg Entertainment would be “looking to be more vigilant with bag searches” and will “look to venues to provide metal detectors.” There will also be pat-down searches on patrons wearing bulky clothes.
“We will discuss with venues plans they will surely be implementing,” said Chugg, adding that “CCTV is a must for all venues if they have not already to in place” and suggesting he would seek recommendations from the police.
Live Nation Australia President Michael Coppel has also said that they “are in active liaison with all our venue partners to review their security arrangements for upcoming events, as I assume all the major promoters are in relation to their upcoming events”.
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A statement by Live Nation US insisted “The safety and security of our shows, fans and venues continues to be our highest priority. Due to the recent events in Paris and in an abundance of caution we have implemented heightened security procedures globally.”
“However, because of the sensitive nature of these protocols, we cannot elaborate further on the specific details.” It’s not clear what measures will be in place for Live Nation’s upcoming Australian shows, which includes tours from The Amity Affliction, A Day To Remember, and more.
