Ticket-Holders Furious After Being Turned Away From Dance Competition

EAST LIBERTY (KDKA) -- People were furious Saturday after being denied entry to a dance competition in East Liberty.

"I spent $280 on tickets and I'm just out of my money, no answers, shutting doors, kids out here are cold," Shalena Lewis said.

Shalena Lewis was one of many others who couldn't get inside the Obama Academy of International Studies, even though she paid for tickets ahead of time.

The reality show "Bring It," which airs on Lifetime, brought some of its stars to Pittsburgh for a majorette dance competition at the school. Teams from all over the country came to perform in hopes of winning a spot on the reality show.

"A lot of disappointed kids, and parents unfortunately who have kids participating weren't able to get in and see their kids dance," said Caren Caldwell of Verona.

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

The fire marshal was there because the gym was over capacity. Even though a lot of people paid for their tickets in advance, they were being shut out.

"There was a lot of pushing and shoving, a lot of children being pushed and people saying 'I demand my refund because I spent my money,'" said Cinnamon Faulkner of Rankin.

Close to a dozen police cruisers from Pittsburgh Police were on standby in case things got out of control.

People say the event was supposed to bring the community together.

"It was about the kids. There's no reason we should stand in line two hours and they slam the door on your face," said William Wilson.