Elton John Stage Collapses

Local officials in Mexico say the show will go on after a part of a stage under construction for tomorrow night’s Elton John concert at the country’s Chichen Itza ruins collapsed, injuring three workers.

Two workers were treated for minor injuries then released while a third was hospitalized for a broken leg.

“There has been no discussion of canceling the event,” Francisco de Anda, a spokesman for the country’s National Institute of Anthropology and History that is presenting the event, said on Thursday.

Upper lighting rails used to support lighting and other equipment collapsed onto the stage, which is situated a safe distance from the 1,200-year-old Mayan ruins. According to De Anda, outside experts have been called in to inspect the structure and will decide if it can be repaired or needs to be replaced.

Photo: AP Photo

The descent of the Kukulkcan serpent as it draws its shadow on the stairs during Spring equinox.

But not all Mexicans are in favor of having Elton, or anybody, play the ruins dubbed one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World.” Although several concerts have been held at the location, including a Placido Domingo performance in 2008, critics have complained that holding shows on the site demeans and endangers the cultural significance of the ruins.