Japanese diva Ayumi Hamasaki was issued a restriction order by China against Japanese artists as a warning to others. Her concert in Shanghai was abruptly called off on the 29th of last month, and her show in Macau scheduled for the 10th of next month was also regrettably canceled. After receiving notice of the event's suspension on the eve of her Shanghai performance, she sang the entire set in front of 14,000 empty seats. However, Chinese media claimed it was 'just a rehearsal.' Some netizens, claiming to be Chinese staff, issued apologies and said they had secretly filmed the rehearsal in violation of the rules. But Ayu paid no mind to these manipulative moves; instead, she released high-quality photos of her 'no-audience concert' once again, specifically crediting two Japanese photographers and even using the photos to preview her upcoming Tokyo New Year's concert.
On the evening of the 14th, she again posted photos from her Shanghai no-audience concert, including close-ups of dancers and musicians, writing: 'There are only about 10 days left until the dress rehearsal for the Yoyogi New Year's concert. We dedicate this performance to everyone who had looked forward to seeing us in Shanghai and Macau, and to those who have supported this Asian tour in Hong Kong, Singapore, Taipei, Hangzhou, Beijing, and Japan. TA (Team Ayu), are you ready to rock with us at the "sacred place"?'
Fans were moved by the photos and left comments such as: 'The performance's energy is so strong, it's hard to believe there were no live audience members—everyone looks amazing!' To which Ayumi responded, 'That's right! It’s so moving to think everyone on stage wore these expressions at that moment!'
News Source: Apple Daily News