A group of dancers was rehearsing for Freedom 250’s July 4 celebration at the Great American State Fair on Thursday when an overhead stage piece fell, narrowly missing the performers.
No one appeared to be injured, according to video footage of the near-death incident. The item made a loud thud when it hit the stage, and the rehearsal immediately stopped.
Freedom 250, an organization established by the Trump administration to coordinate and fund celebrations for America’s 250th birthday, confirmed there were no injuries.
“We’re grateful to report that everyone is safe. We take the safety of our performers, crew, volunteers, and guests extremely seriously,” a spokesperson told the Washington Examiner.
“The work underway was taking place on the backside of the stage, separate from the front thrust where performers were rehearsing,” the spokesperson said. “Additional safeguards and senior technical oversight are now in place as preparations continue. Freedom 250 and our performers remain fully focused on delivering an unforgettable celebration for the American people.”
Critics of President Donald Trump, such as left-wing influencer Harry Sisson, pointed to the stage production mishap as further evidence the administration’s America 250 fair is “falling apart.” Since its start last Thursday, the fair has been criticized for low turnout while the White House heavily promotes the 16-day event on social media.
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), who recently lost his primary to a Trump-endorsed candidate, joined in on criticizing the fair.
“Feeling more and more like the Hunger Games,” Massie said in reference to the stage mishap.
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The incident occurred during an intense heat wave in Washington, D.C., where residents and tourists are experiencing temperatures of 100 degrees this holiday weekend. Officials are encouraging people to stay hydrated amid the high temperatures as the Fourth of July nears.
The July 4 celebration in the nation’s capital is expected to continue, with a full fireworks display late that night. A Freedom 250 rodeo event, scheduled for 9 p.m. Thursday, was postponed due to the heat. The Great American State Fair lasts until July 10.
