Dua Lipa's first tour of China took a dangerous turn during her show in Shanghai on Tuesday night. The performer, whose shows are known for their high energy, was left visibly shaken by the actions of the venue's security and local police.
According to eyewitnesses present at the concert, fans of the singer who danced during the performance or waved Pride flags were forcibly removed from the arena. In videos shared online, fans can be seen dragged from their seats as the music cuts out from the stage.
I just CANT believe it. This is the show of Dua Lipa in Shanghai. All the fans are forbidden to stand out and could only sit on to see the show?!? If you don’t, the guard would use violence to kick u out. It’s unbelievable... #dualipa pic.twitter.com/quITZNLVxU
— Ｎｅｏ (@imneo_) September 12, 2018
Visibly distressed by the actions of police and security, Dua Lipa continued with the concert and asked for everyone to be able to enjoy themselves: "...I want to create a really safe environment for us all to have fun. I want us all to dance, I want us all to sing, I just want us all to have a really good time".
Dua Lipa Cried In Shanghai China Tonight pic.twitter.com/Tz17SRGpiH
— Liability (@958353005) September 12, 2018
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Through a post on Twitter the singer revealed she was horrified by what she saw and hopes to return to Shanghai when the time is right and see a room full of rainbows - a symbol of LGBTQ+ pride:
Shanghai ❤️ pic.twitter.com/mxLHxj2Y3y
— DUA LIPA (@DUALIPA) September 13, 2018
China's strict moral code, influenced by its conservative government, means that conversion therapy is commonly practiced in hospitals and clinics. The medieval process aims to change a person's sexuality from gay or bisexual to heterosexual. Electroshock therapy can also feature as part of the treatment.
According to Human Rights Watch, back in May in Xi'an, LGBT groups had their meetings canceled by authorities and a popular dating app for gay women was shut down. Shanghai is typically considered the most tolerant LGBTQ+ city in China.
This is the real China. The performers are not allowed showing out their tattoos. Audience are not allowed to stand up during the whole show. And no flags, no interaction with the performers. Or the guards will drag you outside violently, or illuminate your eyes with flashlight.
— Adventure_Life (@Everglow_birds) September 12, 2018
