Peter Kay has confirmed that two scheduled gigs at the Co-op Live in Manchester have been cancelled on just 24 hours’ notice.
The owners of the new venue, which is now the largest arena in the UK, were buzzing to host the popular comic, but sadly, things have gone terribly wrong, with a power issue forcing organisers to pull the plug on Tuesday and Wednesday’s eagerly-anticipated events.
The news has unsurprisingly left those with tickets in a complete state of disarray. But luckily, the revered performer and the venue have managed to arrange new dates, and comedy enthusiasts don’t have long to wait.
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Peter Kay released the following statement: “I’m truly gutted as I know how disappointing this will be for everyone with tickets, but obviously it’s a brand-new venue, and it’s important that everything is finished and safe for full capacity audiences.”
(Image: Twitter)
In a testament to his unrelenting love for the fans, the Bolton icon will make the ultimate sacrifice to get up on stage in just a week’s time.
He explained: “Fortunately, we’ve been able to reschedule the shows to next week, (I’ll have to miss my Bums & Tums class), but hopefully, I’ll see you then.”
A spokesperson for the venue said: “Following our first test event on Saturday, regretfully, we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our two opening performances by Peter Kay. These dates will move from 23 April and 24 Wednesday to Monday, 29 and Tuesday, 30 April.
(Image: Getty Images)
“It is critical to ensure we have a consistent total power supply to our fully electric sustainable venue, the completion of which is a few days behind. Rescheduling gives us the extra time we need to continue testing thoroughly. This is vital to satisfy the rigorous set of guidelines and protocols that are necessary for a venue of this size.
“Peter Kay has very graciously agreed to perform his record-breaking comedy at Co-op Live on 29 (rescheduled from 23) and 30 (rescheduled from 24) April 2024. All tickets remain valid and ticket holders will be contacted by their point of purchase. Refunds will be available for those who can no longer attend.
“We are very sorry for the inconvenience that this change will undoubtedly cause for some. We are thrilled to welcome Peter Kay as our grand opening act just a few days later than planned.”
(Image: Instagram/bryanederymusic)
The decision to stop Peter getting up on stage comes after news broke that the venue has been struggling with power at the site. The issues reportedly debilitated fire safety and emergency services communications systems, which forced bosses to cut the 11,000 capacity for Rick Astley’s tester event down to 4000, just two hours before the music legend started playing.
Regardless, the venue is set to launch very soon, with a plethora of internationally renowned musicians, featuring Eric Clapton and Take That. The arena is located in the middle of the Etihad Campus, next door to the Manchester City stadium.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
