A TikTok video capturing a heated exchange between two buskers over a coveted performance spot at Pitt Street Mall in Sydney has gone viral.
Key points:
- Singer Widya Tjong captured her confrontation with violinist Vasiliy Shapkin in a since-deleted TikTok live video that garnered over 2 million views.
- In the clip, Shapkin can be heard demanding Tjong give up the spot because he had allegedly been waiting for it.
- Bystanders intervened, accusing Shapkin of bullying Tjong, who eventually conceded the spot following her emotional breakdown.
- Tjong removed her video after Shapkin drew online backlash and took down his social media accounts.
The details:
- On March 15, Tjong started her set around 1:30 p.m. and was recording live on TikTok when Shapkin approached him and insisted that she vacate the spot.
- He asserted his claim for a 2 p.m. performance he purportedly had reserved by leaving his belongings nearby. Tjong tearfully relented and allowed Shapkin to proceed with his performance.
- Many bystanders rallied behind Tjong, condemning Shapkin’s behavior as bullying. Social media also erupted in support of Tjong, with users expressing solidarity with the singer’s plight.
- In response to the overwhelming support she received, Tjong expressed gratitude in subsequent posts. She wrote: “I just want to take my time right here right now to thank every single one of you for sending out love, kindness and support. I really, really don’t know what to say. You guys are so powerful and I really appreciate all the gestures you guys did. I will keep doing what I love to do. I’m not giving up something like this can’t make me give up a dream I have had for 25 years so don’t worry I will still busk and perform just maybe not today not just yet.”
What commenters said:
- “Never let a bully get away with bs,” wrote a commenter. “Thank you for doing this and spreading awareness.”
- “The fact that multiple people have said that he’s extremely rude goes to show…
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