A performance by rapper Travis Scott at Rome’s historic Circus Maximus left both fans and authorities in turmoil.
Travis Scott ‘Utopia’ concert caused a minor earthquake in Rome
What was meant to be an electrifying night of music turned into a series of chaotic events that have raised questions about the suitability of hosting large-scale concerts at this iconic Italian venue.
Rumours of an Earthquake Spread Amidst Pandemonium
Travis Scott’s concert on Monday evening took an unexpected turn when incidents of pepper-spraying and injuries among the crowd marred the show.
As reported by TMZ, among the injured was a 14-year-old who fell while attempting to climb a wall. The commotion was exacerbated by the surprise appearance of Kanye West on stage, resulting in a frenzy of excited fans.
As the audience jumped and danced to the music, confusion and panic spread beyond the concert grounds.
Reports emerged of Romans frantically calling emergency services, mistaking the energetic movements of concert-goers for seismic activity.
Social media platforms buzzed with posts asking, “Anyone feel an earthquake?”
Colosseum Director Calls for Concerts to Cease
In the aftermath of the Travis Scott performance, Alfonsina Russo, the Director of the Colosseum Archeological Park, expressed concern about the impact of such large-scale concerts on historic sites like Circus Maximus.
Russo firmly stated that the Circus Maximus, renowned as a monumental archaeological site, should not be treated as a stadium or a conventional concert venue.
She argued that the staging of mega rock concerts places the site’s preservation at risk.
Russo’s position has prompted a call to halt future concerts at Circus Maximus, with the exception of operas and ballets.
Her assertion underscores the delicate balance between showcasing modern entertainment and safeguarding the historical integrity of treasured locations.
For Travis Scott, the Rome concert debacle is reminiscent of the controversies surrounding his infamous Astroworld event in 2021. The Astroworld tragedy, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, raised serious questions about concert safety and the responsibilities of performers and organisers.