The controversy surrounding Slimane's presence at Vitaa's concert highlights the ongoing challenges within the entertainment industry regarding accountability and the treatment of harassment allegations.
The technicians' refusal to work with Slimane underscores a growing movement among industry professionals to prioritize ethical standards over personal relationships.
The ongoing tension may lead to further protests from technicians at future concerts, potentially impacting Vitaa's tour schedule.
This incident could spark broader discussions within the music industry about the treatment of artists accused of misconduct and the responsibilities of production teams.
Tensions Rise Backstage at Vitaa's Concert Over Slimane's Presence
Vitaa's concert at the Accor Arena in Bercy on December 4 has become a focal point of controversy, overshadowing what should have been a celebratory highlight of her tour across France, Belgium, and Switzerland. The atmosphere backstage is described as "heavy" and "deleterious" as technicians express their outrage over the invitation extended to Slimane, a close friend of Vitaa and a fellow artist, who is facing serious allegations of harassment and sexual assault.
The situation escalated after it was revealed that Slimane, who has been accused by two former team members during his Cupidon tour, would join Vitaa on stage. Technicians have voiced their refusal to work alongside him, stating, "We signed for Vitaa, not for Slimane," emphasizing their unwillingness to support someone with such serious allegations against him. The claims against Slimane include sending inappropriate messages and engaging in unwanted physical contact, which has led to a divided team and heightened tensions.
Production Struggles Amid Controversy
The conflict reached a boiling point during a recent crisis meeting involving Vitaa, her husband and manager Hicham Bendaoud, and Marc Daniel, the director of Play Two Live, the concert's producer. Technicians threatened to exercise their right to withdraw from the production if Slimane was allowed to perform. In response, Bendaoud reportedly downplayed the allegations, suggesting that such behavior is commonplace, which further infuriated the technicians.
Despite the mounting pressure, the production confirmed Slimane's participation in the concert, leading technicians to feel cornered between their professional obligations and their moral stance. One technician lamented, "We feel like we are also being harassed," highlighting the fear of potential repercussions in the industry for voicing their concerns. As the concert approaches, the tension remains palpable, with Vitaa facing not only the performance but also the looming media scrutiny surrounding the controversy.
