Ensuring artist & audience safety at concerts in Tennessee

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — With terroristic threats canceling three international Taylor Swift concerts, a Nashville-based entertainment group provides perspective on the checks and balances in place for Tennessee productions.

“Our whole goal is to make sure everybody is safe,” said Brian Crews, senior talent buyer and event producer for Romeo Entertainment Group .

Crews explained it takes many teams working together over an extended period of time to ensure events are safe and secure.

Well before an event, Crews said there are discussions with local law enforcement and emergency management offices, as well as security contractors and venue teams, to create safety and evacuation plans.

The day of the show, security and the artist’s team meet to review the plans, including where the artist will go in case of emergency. Meanwhile, bomb and drug sweeps of the venue and vehicles are taking place.

Crews noted that typically, guests go through metal detectors and clear bag policies are enforced. Plus, eyes are on the lookout for red flags.

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He said throughout the show, security teams stay in communication and there are several ways to alert the audience to an emergency if need be; for example, the screens, text messages, or social media.

Crews stressed that audience members are a key player in safety.

“You, the patron, the fan, are a great resource,” said Crews. “If you do see something, make sure you say something. Don’t take it lightly.”

If need be, action is taken on the event’s scheduling.

Crews said this also goes for weather threats, as they work closely with a meteorologist to assess storm risk.

“The decision that’s made is not made lightly,” said Crews. “As much as fans don’t like decisions that are made, their safety and the artists safety has got to be the first and foremost thing we all talk about.”

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