Operation Madonna: Rio Prepares for Singer's Spectacular Free Concert in Copacabana

Madonna's highly anticipated free concert on Rio de Janeiro's iconic Copacabana Beach has stirred up excitement in the neighborhood, with over a million fans expected to attend. "Welcome, Queen," read posters near the massive stage erected on the Brazilian beach, where Madonna will stage the grand finale of her "Celebration Tour" on Saturday.

Por: Brazilcore

Accompanied by three planes and 270 tons of equipment, according to her production company, Madonna has taken up residence at the luxurious Belmond Copacabana Palace hotel. The hotel, one of Brazil's most iconic, is connected to the stage by a suspended catwalk where dozens of fans gathered this week, hoping to catch a glimpse of the pop star.

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The "Madonna Effect" at Copacabana Palace

While Copacabana Palace is renowned for its luxury and steep prices, the 'Madonna effect' has intensified the cost of reservations. During the week of the historic show, reservations at the Copacabana Palace have soared to as high as R$11,000 (around US$2,200), well above the usual rates. However, reservations for the weekend of the show, March 3rd and 4th, are already fully booked.

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The Biggest Dance Floor

With free admission, organizers anticipate Madonna's concert to create the "world's biggest dance floor," potentially drawing up to 1.5 million people — a figure previously achieved only by the Rolling Stones on the same beach in 2006.

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