Concert hiccups: Ed was perfect but arrangements not so much

SHILLONG, Feb 13: Singer Songwriter Ed Sheeran’s performance at JN Stadium on Wednesday in Meghalaya was a memorable experience for fans, but it had its own share of hiccups
From painfully long queues, tardy entry procedures to mismanagement of people’s belongings, concert-goers shared their disapproval of some aspects of the concert that left them frustrated.
As per fans who queued up as early as 3 pm, the entry process was slow, with long queues stretching up to Polo Market. Only two entry gates were open, and security checks involved three layers of frisking, causing delays. Inside the venue, network issues made digital transactions difficult, and food and water could only be purchased through a top-up system.
As thousands of young fans flocked to JN Stadium after waiting in long queues, additional challenges awaited them inside. Food and essential items were overpriced, leaving many to fend for themselves.
Some attendees noted that while mineral water was provided for free, the cups required to drink it were sold for Rs 100 — much to the dismay of concert-goers, especially since organisers had banned water bottles and even biscuits from being brought into the venue.
“A handful of fries cost Rs 250, and the portable toilets were unhygienic,” said a young attendee, adding that such events are becoming more about profit than providing a night of music and enjoyment.
Additionally, sanitisers, hairbrushes, combs, lipsticks, and small bags were prohibited. Worse still, confiscated items were not returned after the concert. There were no designated storage areas, leaving many tourists — particularly those from Assam — struggling as they were not allowed to enter with their backpacks. Concerns were raised by attendees from Assam and other Northeastern states who faced difficulties due to these restrictions.
Nonetheless, the atmosphere inside changed as Sheeran took the stage. Performing without a band, he relied solely on his guitar and loop pedal, switching between instruments smoothly. His setlist included hits like Perfect, Thinking Out Loud, and Photograph, which had the crowd singing along.
One of the standout moments was when Sheeran rapped on the stage for nearly four minutes while performing You Need Me, I Don’t Need You.
Sheeran’s ability to engage the audience with just his voice and guitar set his performance apart. His simple yet effective use of looping technology allowed him to build layers of sound, recreating the feel of a full band.