Zagreb Under Siege: Thompson and Half a Million Fans at the Hippodrome!
Today, something unforgettable is happening in Zagreb – a concert by Marko Perković Thompson at the hippodrome, with organizers claiming around half a million tickets sold! Yes, you read that right, half a million people! This is the largest concert in the history of independent Croatia. But it’s not just a celebration and music – this event has sparked a storm of reactions and political tensions.
Political Reactions That Won’t Stop
While Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and other high-ranking officials attend the concert, opposition politicians are not holding back their criticism. Anka Mrak Taritaš and Ivana Marković from SDP condemn the glorification of Ustaše and extremism at the concert, arguing that patriotism cannot be reduced to such symbols and messages of hate. Dalija Orešković warns that such events deepen social divisions and hinder the development of a modern Croatia.
Miro Bulj from Most accuses the Prime Minister of hypocrisy, while philosopher Marko Vučetić describes the concert as a manifestation of an idolatrous menagerie and revisionist rhetoric. Former Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor expresses shame over Plenković’s handshake with Thompson, while critics warn that the concert glorifies dark ideologies and symbols that do not belong in modern Croatia.
Technical and Organizational Irony
Interestingly, the technical production of the concert was reportedly provided by a Serbian company because Croatian firms could not handle the scale of the event. So, the biggest Croatian concert involves the “Serbian world” – which many find ironic and it further fuels tensions.
Chaos and Security Challenges
Police detained 44 people during the day, mostly for using pyrotechnics, and there were incidents of torch lighting and small fires on the Sava embankment. Emergency services intervened 63 times, and one man even bled at the hippodrome. Security services were on high alert, but the atmosphere was tense and chaotic.
Fans from Around the World and a Spectacle to Remember
Croats from all over the world – the USA, Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavia – came to the concert. Many came specifically for Thompson, and the atmosphere was described as magnificent. Fans were thrilled, singing his most famous songs, some even changed flights and plans to attend this event.
General Rehearsal and Official Footage
Thompson held a general rehearsal last night, with footage showing an impressive light show, a huge stage, and Prime Minister Plenković socializing with the singer. Thompson shared videos on Facebook with the message: “Let’s take care of each other.”
What Does This Tell Us?
This concert is not just a musical event. It’s a political spectacle that divides society, stirs old wounds, and reminds us of dark parts of Croatian history. With half a million people in one place, politicians unafraid to appear, and ongoing controversies, it’s clear that Thompson’s concert is much more than just entertainment.
If you thought music was just for enjoyment, think again. This event proves music can be a weapon – a weapon that divides, provokes, and awakens passions. So, what do you think? Is this a celebration of patriotism or a dangerous game with fire? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s for and who’s against – and remember, music is more powerful than you think!
