Comedian Peter Kay has been forced to postpone two shows at Co-op Live in Manchester after a strength test of the new arena fell “a few days” behind schedule.
Record breaking stand-up The comedian was due to open the new venue – now the UK’s largest – on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.
The Phoenix Nights star, 50, said in a statement: “I’m really disappointed because I know how disappointing this will be for everyone with tickets, but obviously it’s a new venue and it’s important that everything is ready. And be safe.” For a full capacity audience.
“Luckily, we’ve been able to reschedule the show for next week, (I’ll have to miss my Bums and Tums class) but hopefully I’ll see you then.”
Co-op Live shared a statement on their Twitter feed, telling followers: “Following our first test event on Saturday, regrettably we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our two opening performances by Peter Is.
“These dates will move from Wednesday 23rd and 24th April to Monday 29th and Tuesday 30th April.”
A spokesperson for the venue said the reason for the cancellation was a power supply issue.
“It is important to ensure that there is a consistent total power supply to our fully electric sustainable site, which is just days away from completion.
“The rescheduling gives us the additional time we need to continue thorough testing. This is important to meet the rigorous set of guidelines and protocols required for a venue of this size.
The statement said: “Peter Kay has very kindly agreed to perform his record-breaking comedy at the Co-op Live on 29 (rescheduled from 23) and 30 (rescheduled from 24) April 2024. All tickets valid Will remain and ticket holders have been contacted at their point of purchase.”
He said refunds would be available for any ticketholders who are no longer able to attend the event, and explained that the change in date could mean new tickets will become available to fans who missed out on attending the first time around. Were.
The venue added: “We are very sorry for the inconvenience this change will undoubtedly cause for some people. We are thrilled to welcome Peter Kay back as our grand opening event just a few days later than planned Are.”
Over the weekend, a preview concert starring Rick Astley was also delayed, as ticket capacity was reduced hours before his show was to begin.
Astley fans whose tickets were canceled have been offered seats to see US rock band The Black Keys next week.
Co-op Live Arena in Manchester. Image: Cover Image/AP
Once fully opened, the arena – which is next to Manchester City’s football ground – will have a capacity of 23,500, surpassing the capacity of the existing Manchester Arena, which has a capacity of 21,000.
Built at an estimated cost of £365 million, the arena counts former One Direction singer Harry Styles as one of its investors, with the pop star also advising on certain elements of the arena’s design.
Other stars set to play the venue include Take That, Liam Gallagher, Olivia Rodrigo and Eric Clapton.
Peter is on his return tour – His first since 2010 – From December, stops in Birmingham, Manchester and Leeds are scheduled through next year.
In 2010, Kay achieved the Guinness World Record for the most sold-out race ever played – with a total of 1.2 million people playing.
