Michelle Shocked Stages Protest at Canceled Santa Cruz Show
Folk singer Michelle Shocked staged a protest last night oustide the Santa Cruz, California, club that canceled the show she was supposed to perform there. Moe’s Alley called off the concert following Shocked’s onstage rant in San Francisco earlier this month, which was widely regarded as homophobic, despite the singer’s insistence that her words were taken out of context.
The Associated Press reports that Shocked staged a sit-in outside the club, covering her face and taping her mouth shut with a sticker that read “Silenced By Fear.” Her only response to questions was to strum her acoustic guitar.
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Earlier in the day, she tweeted about her plans, writing, “Moe’s in S Cruz tonight ok? Its an art project ‘My Summer Vacation’ I want your autograph. Bring Sharpie.” A sign placed next to her invited onlookers to pick up a pen and write something on her disposable white safety suit.
“We will not be bashing Michelle Shocked,” said Moe’s Alley owner Bill Welch, who also spoke with Shocked while she played outside. “Rather we will celebrate music, diversity and send some healing Santa Cruz energy her way.”