Assault During Events: What You Can Do

Event Planning, Event Venue

Event organizer lessons learned after Will Smith assalted Chris Rock at the Oscars.

The Academy Awards have recently been the buzz of the town. The 2022 Oscars served us some truly out-of-place drama. And where there is controversy brewing, a lot is left for discussion. But it’s not just the history-making assault on stage.

While the internet rushed to discuss who was at fault, one would wonder how somebody would run up the stage to smack a host or make an unscripted joke. This reality begs the question: are you prepared for something like that if or when it happens? What do we do in that case?

Lessons to Be Learnt

So, how can event planners avoid such calamities in the future? Having the show scripted could rescue the day, especially if it is a broadcast event. You will also need a well-coordinated crew, a time delay, and a solid emergency plan. In such circumstances, that is the best you can do.

Before, commonsense expected that no one has access to the podium (except those invited). Now, with increasing levels of unpredictability among invited guests, measures may need to be put in place to avoid such eventualities. Create an environment where it’s not okay for seated guests to go on stage. So, make sure you don’t have a casual atmosphere where somebody feels like they can go up the stage to give a pat on the back or a smack on the face.

Depending on the setup and the audience involved, having security stationed close to (and probably sitting) the stage may be recommended. Another idea may be to get guests to sign a consent that such behavior would not be permitted under any circumstances. Also, event MCs must be civil in their actions and utterances to at least minimize any form of provocation.

The 2022 Oscars is a cautionary tale that makes us realize that anything can go wrong in an event. Therefore everybody must know what their role is in an event, event producers and guests alike. If you intend to host a drama-free and successful event, consider giving Villa Ragusa a try. Our event management can make fulfilling your customized fun requests a breeze. Celebrate the moment, and let us handle the burden for you.