A highly acclaimed multi-instrumentalist duo had their show at the Atkinson cancelled last night just 20 minutes before its scheduled start time.
The Blackheart Orchestra were told that due to the ongoing installation of the town Christmas Tree in the Princess Diana Memorial Gardens, the show would have to be cancelled due to potential blockages to emergency services access routes.
The band said that they had been expecting fans from as far away as Newcastle, many of whom had taken leave from work and booked hotels.
Band member Richard Pilkington told fans via Facebook: “It’s been the most disastrous night you could ever imagine.” while Chrissy Mostyn said: “We’re laughing so we don’t cry.”
The Lord Street Christmas tree is curated each year by the Southport BID. A video posted yesterday on behalf of the tree’s creators Illumidex confirmed that the installation process was due to take place from yesterday morning up until around midnight.
In a statement published to fans, the Blackheart Orchestra said: “We’re so deeply saddened and utterly angered that tonight’s concert was cancelled by Southport Atkinson Theatre due to Sefton Council who decided to erect a Christmas tree outside the theatre exactly when our show was scheduled to take place, thus creating a ‘health and safety’ problem whereby emergency services couldn’t get access to the theatre.
“We feel so sorry for everyone who travelled to see us from Newcastle, South Manchester, Preston, Wigan and many have booked hotels and taken holidays from work, please please we encourage you all to demand ALL your expenses from Sefton Council and NOT just your ticket refund.”
A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “Southport’s Christmas Tree is installed, maintained and funded by the Southport Business Improvement District, not Sefton Council.
“We are aware the installation of the structure is a delicate and complex process and ask that efforts are made to ensure these works do not coincide or affect an event at The Atkinson.
“Unfortunately we were informed of this year’s installation at very short notice, at which point a music event had already been organised.
“We then sought assurances that all works would be carried out considerately to ensure no disruption to the performance and that all fire exits were kept clear.
“Sadly during the evening it became apparent that the BID’s contractors were not abiding by these pre-agreed safety requirements and we were left with little option but to ensure the safety of everyone within The Atkinson and postpone the event.
“The team at The Atkinson is disappointed that the event wasn’t able to go ahead as planned and has already compensated the band for their postponed performance. Full refunds are now being processed for ticket holders.”
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