Comedy Store shows cancelled over local lockdown fears

A nationwide series of Comedy Store drive-in gigs has been cancelled over fears of further coronavirus flare-ups.

The stand-up shows were part of the Utilita Live From The Drive-In series organised by entertainment giant Live Nation over the summer.

Musicians lined up for the tour included Dizzee Rascal, Gary Numan, Kaiser Chiefs and The Streets.

But even though the gigs would have maintained social distancing, organisers say the threat of localised lockdowns, such as that imposed in Leicester, make planning a nationwide tour impossible.

In a statement, they said: ’The latest developments regarding localised lockdowns mean it has become impossible for us to continue with the series with any confidence. We thank everyone for their support and eagerly await a time when we can watch live music together again.’

Sponsors Utilita added: ‘We had worked tirelessly on exciting plans for what was promising to be a fantastic couple of months of entertainment across the UK. However, we fully understand and support the necessary decision to cancel due to concerns over localised lockdowns.’

Comedy shows had been planned for University of Bolton Stadium, Liverpool's Central Docks and Milton Keynes' National Bowl.

Live versions of the All Killa No Filla podcast, with comics Kiri Pritchard-McLean and Rachel Fairburn have also been pulled from the tour.

Full refunds will be issued directly to all ticket holders within the next seven days.

However the move does not affect other Comedy Store branded drive-ins taking place under the Car Park Party banner in Northampton, Newbury, Chelmsford and Powderham Castle.

Published: 15 Jul 2020