Extra Security Slows Concert-Goers

By Craig Day, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Some heavy metal fans were slowed down by metal detectors at the BOK Center.  The extra security meant an extra long wait for fans trying to get in to see the Metallica concert in Tulsa.

As soon as Stephanie Andre heard Metallica was coming to the BOK Center, she and her husband got tickets.  They looked forward to their first trip to the arena.  She says they arrived 30 minutes early, thinking that was plenty of time.

"Enough time that we shouldn't have to wait in line too long.  And, we should still be able to get most of the opening act.  That's what I thought," said Stephanie Andre.

She says that's not how things worked out.  On a scale of one to ten, she rates the concert and arena as an 11, but says getting into the show was a one.

Extra security measures, including the use of metal detectors, meant it took much longer for fans to get inside.  For the Andres' that meant an hour and a half in line.

"By the time we got in, the opening acts were finished.  And even up until Metallica took the stage, people were still pouring in," said Stephanie Andre.

But, during recent concerts at the BOK Center, like the Eagles and Neil Diamond, metal detectors weren't used.  So Andre was puzzled.

So, why do some shows have the increased security measures while others don't?  And where does that leave concertgoers hoping to get inside on time?

The BOK Center says the tours themselves decide what security measures, like metal detectors, are required for each venue.

"I'm completely in favor of security, I just think a heads up would have been nice," said Stephanie Andre.

As for the Stephanie and her husband, they'll know next time.  They want others to know, too, so they won't miss any of the next big show.

The arena recommends checking its website or calling ahead to find out if there could be security delays.  The next big concert at the BOK Center is Nine Inch Nails on Saturday night.