Theater Threatens to End Free Rap Concerts

Representatives of the Ventura Theatre have vowed to end all free concerts--especially those of the aggressive, gangsta-rap variety--in response to violence that forced police to stop a concert and close the venue last weekend. A show scheduled for Nov. 20 could be moved to another venue, said theater owner Robert Antonini.

“We can’t do shows like that--free shows or aggressive, harder-edge rap music,” said manager Loanne Wulaert.

Three concert-goers attending the hip-hop and “old-school” rap show at the Chestnut Street theater Friday were arrested after they allegedly fought with officers who had asked them to leave the venue. Another was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving and evading police.

Witnesses blamed some of the rap artists for fomenting violence and adding to an already tense situation.