Teen star’s gig called off because of safety fears
PLUG ON SHOW
A SINGER who was performing at Glastonbury this weekend had to cancel a homecoming gig due to safety concerns.
Sekou Sylla was due to perform in his home town of Ashby on Thursday ahead of a performance at Glastonbury yesterday.
However, hours before he was set to appear at the Venture Theatre – a gig which sold out in 32 seconds – the event was cancelled.
The 17-year-old had offered to perform outside the venue for those unable to get inside, but was told this was not possible.
He said: “Ashby I’m really so sorry the police and the Venture Theatre cancelled my show. I’m heartbroken.
“The police didn’t want me to have people outside. That’s understandable.
“They think there’s gonna be roadblocks and overcrowding. I apologise to everyone who was excited to go.”
The Venture Theatre said: “We very much regret this decision but had no alternative because the police expressed serious concerns about potential public safety issues that could occur outside the theatre.
“If we ignore these concerns it could put the theatre’s licence in jeopardy.
“We are very sorry to all those hoping to see Sekou, but I hope you will understand we had no alternative - the public’s safety is paramount.”
A police spokesman said: “Following an invite being made on social media to a free outdoor concert performed by Sekou at the Venture Theatre, Ashby, police have consulted with Sekou’s
POLICE PULL THE
promoter, the venue, the local authority and the force’s licensing team.
“Due to the small size of the venue and the large number of young people who could potentially attend, police made the decision to not allow the event to go ahead due to serious concerns for public safety.”
Sekou was selected for the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury by Brit award-winner Arlo Parks.
The teenager performed at Brooklyn Beckham’s wedding and will support John Legend on his tour next month. Sekou said: “As soon as I get the green light to do shows in Ashby it’s going to happen.”
– DAYS BEFORE SINGER PLAYED GLASTONBURY