A recent Taylor Swift concert at La Défense Arena in Paris stirred controversy, not due to the performance, but because of an unexpected guest – a baby photographed asleep on a purple coat among the standing crowd.
The photo of the sleeping baby, posted on X on May 10 by @jacnights13, rapidly circulated online. In the image, an unidentified adult is seen standing near the child, but the relationship between the two is unclear. This unusual sight at a high-energy pop concert ignited varying reactions on social media, from shock to concern.
The caption on the photo read: “Not to be one of those people but I would genuinely call security if I saw a baby in the pit because it is NOT safe there.”
Several X users, including a self-identified mother, voiced their surprise at the decision to bring a baby to such a noisy and crowded event. Critics pointed out the absence of a baby carrier and highlighted the need for ear protection, which was not visible in the photo, leading to concerns about the child’s auditory health.
One user wrote, “(I) can’t imagine how stressful it must have been for the baby to be in that environment.” Another added, “Literally if there was an emergency and everyone had to rush to exit that baby would get stepped on or injured. It’s literally so upsetting to me I can’t even…”
This incident sparked broader discussions about the appropriateness of bringing young children to concerts, which are typically characterized by loud music, intense lighting, and large crowds. The potential risks, such as dangers during an emergency that requires swift evacuation of the venue, were examined by online commentators and concertgoers alike.
In response to the growing debate, a spokesperson for La Défense Arena stated that while their policies require minors to be accompanied by an adult, the primary responsibility for the child’s welfare lies with their guardian. The spokesperson also mentioned that alternative seating options for attendees with young children in the standing area are offered by the venue, but in this case, those options were not utilized.
La Défense Arena’s website provides guidelines for concertgoers, detailing bag policies and prohibited items. It does not impose specific restrictions on the attendance of young children, but it does advise against bringing children under four years old to events, primarily due to concerns about noise exposure.
Pop star Taylor Swift, 34, kicked off her Eras Tour in Paris on May 9, marking her return to live performances and the debut of her new album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Known for their dynamic energy and large audiences, Swift’s concerts have sparked more discussions about the suitability of such environments for young children.
The incident has not only triggered a debate about parental responsibility at public events but also led to discussions on what steps venues might consider to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.
