Kneecap Vienna show cancelled

The Belfast rap trio Kneecap cancel their Vienna show amid safety concerns and ongoing political controversy linked to their Palestine stance.

Kneecap Vienna show cancelled amid safety concerns and political backlash

Kneecap's show scheduled for September 1 at Gasometer Vienna has been cancelled due to acute safety concerns raised by authorities, the venue operator Racoon Live Entertainment GmbH said in a notice. The band apologised to about 3,500 fans and said all tickets would be refunded. They described the cancellation as political distraction and a bid to silence those calling out what they describe as genocide in Gaza, while reaffirming their support for Palestinian rights. The Vienna decision follows a July ban on entering Hungary ahead of Sziget Festival and adds to a string of recent cancellations at TRNSMT in Glasgow and at the Eden Project in Cornwall.

Background matters include the group's Belfast roots and provocative approach to language and politics. In April footage circulated showing a band member shouting Kill your local MP at a gig and Up Hamas, up Hezbollah at another. In May Liam Ó hAnnaidh, known as Mo Chara, was charged with a terrorism offence over a flag displayed at a London concert. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court in June, while supporters planned to attend the August 20 hearing. Avon and Somerset Police later said they would take no further action over the Glastonbury performance. Kneecap has apologised to families of murdered MPs and reiterated they do not support Hamas or Hezbollah.

Art and protest often collide with public safety rules, but Kneecap’s Vienna cancellation highlights a deeper tension between provocative music and security measures. The group has built a brand on political edge and cultural visibility, a mix that can attract risk to venues and fans alike. The episode also exposes how social media and political discourse shape live events, sometimes more quickly than official statements. The case invites a broader look at how authorities balance freedom of expression with crowd safety and the responsibilities of promoters in a polarized climate.

Highlights

Art and safety will keep shaping what live music can say in public spaces.