In Vienna on Thursday, police monitored a large gathering of Taylor Swift fans who came together to sing her songs after her scheduled concerts were abruptly canceled. The three sold-out shows, part of Swift’s Eras Tour, were called off due to a plot to attack the events, allegedly linked to extremist groups like ISIS and al-Qaida.
The Ernst Happel Stadium, which was set to host up to 65,000 fans, stood empty, with only media present outside. However, fans found solace on Corneliusgasse, a small street 5 kilometers from the stadium, where they gathered to exchange friendship bracelets and share their disappointment. The street’s name echoes “Cornelia Street,” a track from Swift’s 2019 album Lover, which references a street in New York City where Swift once lived and where fans now visit for selfies.
Despite the rain, fans continued to clap, dance, and sing Swift’s songs. Some embraced each other in tears, while others celebrated by attaching their bracelets to trees around the city center. A police officer even adorned his uniform with the colorful bracelets. As the rain picked up, many fans began to disperse, hopeful for another chance to see their idol perform in the future.
