Peter Kay says he has been forced to again postpone two shows at a new arena in Manchester – this time for almost a month.
The comedian was due to perform at Co-op Live in Manchester, which will become the UK’s biggest arena, on April 23 and 24.
Delayed power tests and safety concerns saw both shows initially postponed to April 29th and 30th – but now the dates have been pushed back to May 23rd and 24th.
Co-op Live general manager Gary Roden resigned yesterday following a series of problems and delays at the new venue.
Kay wrote: “To everyone who has tickets, my apologies once again… I know I can’t believe it either.”
He added: “It is very disappointing but your safety is important and I will not compromise on that.”
The general manager of the £365 million arena has announced his resignation after a series of problems led to a delay in the opening of what will be the UK’s biggest indoor arena.
In a post on X/Twitter today, comedian Kay apologized to fans for the cancellations.
He wrote: “To everyone who has tickets, I apologize once again, but unfortunately Co-op Live is not yet ready and therefore has not yet been tested to a large-scale audience.
“Consequently, they are having to reschedule my two shows yet again (I know I can’t believe it either).”
Today it also emerged that The Black Keys shows due to take place at the venue this month have also been postponed
The headaches at the Co-op Arena became evident after capacity for a test event last Saturday was reduced with just hours notice.
The arena announced on Monday that Kay’s performances would take place on April 29 and 30, with Kay saying he was “truly devastated” by the delay, but the comedy shows will now be moved to May 23 and 24.
He wrote: “Tickets will be transferred or refunds given if the new dates are not suitable. It is very disappointing, but your safety is important and I will not compromise on that.”
Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys. PA Photo
In a post on X/Twitter, Co-Op Live Arena said: “Since making the difficult decision to postpone live shows at Co-op Live taking place this week, we have been undertaking an extensive testing protocol of critical procedures to ensure all areas are ready for fans.
“To ensure we can perform all shows safely, we have unfortunately had to make the decision to reschedule planned shows by The Black Keys and Peter Kay.”
The new date for the North American rock band is May 15th.
A spokesperson for the venue posted: “Rescheduling Peter Kay and The Black Keys will give us the extra time we need to continue thoroughly testing enhanced emergency communications.
“This is vital to satisfy the rigorous set of guidelines and protocols required for a venue of this size to ensure our fans, artists and staff have the safest experience possible.”
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