MADRID (AP) — In her new music video, Katy Perry finds herself among thousands of tourists having a great time on Spain’s Balearic Mediterranean islands. But some scenes, filmed in a protected nature reserve, could land her in trouble.
Regional authorities are investigating over the video for her latest song, “Lifetimes,” which shows the 39-year-old American singer-songwriter jumping and running without a license across the sand dunes of Ses Salines Natural Park, a protected area on the islands of Ibiza and Formentera.
The image sparked controversy as it was taken in an area cordoned off by poles and ropes in the sand dunes of the privately owned islet of Espalmador, “one of the most ecologically valuable places in the islands”, according to local media.
Local authorities have launched a “preliminary investigation procedure” after the production company failed to apply for the proper permits, according to a statement released on Tuesday. The Natural Environment Agency added that the filming would not amount to an environmental violation as this type of production is permitted with a permit.
Her label, Universal Music, said a local video production company assured them all the necessary permits for the video had been obtained. When they learned one permit was still being processed, they “were given verbal permission to go ahead with the shoot,” the day before the shoot, which took place on July 27, a label spokesman said in an email to The Associated Press.
“We comply with all regulations related to filming in the area and have the utmost respect for this site and the officials tasked with protecting it,” the statement said.
Directed by Colombian-American photographer and filmmaker Matias Vázquez (Stillz), the video shows Perry sailing, swimming and clubbing on the islands, which are among the most popular and busiest tourist resorts in the Spanish Mediterranean, especially during the summer months.
Perry’s new album, “143,” will be released on September 20th.
