Madonna takes mock crucifixion tour to Germany

Madonna has taken her worldwide “Confessions” tour to Germany, complete with a mock crucifixion scene that recently drew criticism in Italy.

The pop diva drew a crowd of some 45,000 to Dusseldorf’s LTU Arena last night, the first of two concerts in Germany.

In Italy, a scene in which Madonna rose from the stage crucified on a mirrored cross and wearing a crown of thorns drew fire from religious leaders, who condemned it as an act of hostility toward the Roman Catholic Church.

However, Madonna’s representatives have insisted the performance on the cross is not disrespectful toward the church.

Prosecutors in Dusseldorf said last week that they would monitor reports about yesterday’s concert, although they did not plan to send observers.

They said a repeat of the crucifixion performance could be construed as insulting religious beliefs, but also said the show might be covered by laws protecting artistic freedoms.