In May 1953, the late Liberace  appeared on a local television show in Denver to promote his concert in the area. At that time, Liberace was a huge star who had sold over 2 million records. His appearance generated enthusiasm from his many fans in The Mile-High City .

Liberace's appearance on TV was sponsored by Denver National Bank, who convinced the star to autograph a few pictures in their downtown building. The event was planned for a smaller number of fans than the 4,000 who turned out to see the famed pianist. Fans were lined up for several blocks outside when a cloudburst turned the event from a frenzy of star worship to one of panic.

People crushed through the bank's front doors to get out of the rain. The eight policemen assigned to keep the event in order were overwhelmed by the terrified and soaking humanity. Liberace himself signed photographs at an heroic pace to help officials keep order.

When he had exhausted the supply, Liberace leaped to the counter top and assured the crowd that each and every one would receive a photo in the mail. The mob cheered and followed him out. The lobby was a puddled mess.

The lesson we learn from this historic incident is that a happy crowd can become a turgid mob with the slightest change in conditions. Crowd control  is hard work and is best learned professionally. But there are resources for everyone to be aware of "crowd life,"  both as the controllers  and as the controlled .