Istanbul concert by Emma Shapplin, accused of supporting genocide, cancelled

Emma Shapplin will not perform in Istanbul on September 29 after the Culture and Tourism Ministry cancelled the planned concert.

The Turkish report says the decision followed the French soprano’s open support for Israel and statements viewed as excusing Israel’s actions in Gaza. It also says Shapplin visited Tel Aviv while attacks in Gaza were continuing.

Those positions drew a strong reaction from music fans and the public in Turkey, according to the article. The concert was subsequently removed from the program and cancelled entirely.

The report presents the decision as a response to the artist’s public stance on Israel and the Gaza conflict, using sharply critical language toward both Israel and Shapplin.