Strictly live show cancelled after leak

Thousands of people were left disappointed yesterday afternoon after the matinee performance of Strictly Come Dancing’s live tour in Glasgow was cancelled at the last minute due to a water leak.

Management at the SSE Hydro said the leak had affected the stage area and meant the show could not go ahead, but the news only emerged as long lines of people were queuing in the pouring rain to get in.

Audience members stuck outside the venue complained about a lack of communication from organisers.

The matinee, which was due to start at 1.30pm, was one of four performances due to take place over the weekend.

But it quickly became apparent something was wrong when the arena doors, which were due to open at 12.30pm, stayed closed.

In a statement, the SSE Hydro said: “We are sorry to say that due to a water leak which affected the stage area, today’s matinee has had to be cancelled.

“The team worked hard to resolve the problem, which became apparent shortly before doors opened, the cause of which is unknown.

“We are liaising with the promoter of the event to reschedule the show, however refunds are available from the point of purchase and we sincerely apologise to those affected.”

Later yesterday, the evening show was called off.

One woman, who had travelled from the east coast to be at the show, described the lack of communication as “disgraceful”. She added: “It was ridiculous. People standing in the freezing cold rain from 12.30pm onwards to be told the show was cancelled after already waiting for an hour.

“I saw many children in tears being consoled by their parents.”