Peter Kay forced to postpone gigs for second time

"Absolutely gutted."

Kay was set to open the arena with two massively-anticipated shows earlier this week but just 24 hours before he was set to take the stage, the gigs were postponed for six and seven days.

The shows were initially cancelled as the building was not ready to be opened to the public. The council's building control is also yet to sign the building off, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Now, the shows have been rescheduled yet again.

Taking to X, Kay released a statement confirming the shows had been postponed for the second time, writing: "My apologies once again but unfortunately the Co-op Live still isn’t ready and so, as yet, remains untested for a large-scale audience.

"Consequently, they are having to reschedule my two shows yet again (I know I can’t believe it either)."

When the shows were postponed for the first time earlier this week, a spokesperson for Co-op Live said: "Following our first test event on Saturday, regretfully we have made the difficult decision to reschedule our two opening performances by Peter Kay. These dates will move from 23 April and 24 Wednesday to Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 April.

"It is critical to ensure we have a consistent total power supply to our fully electric sustainable venue, the completion of which is a few days behind. Rescheduling gives us the extra time we need to continue testing thoroughly. This is vital to satisfy the rigorous set of guidelines and protocols that are necessary for a venue of this size.

"Peter Kay has very graciously agreed to perform his record-breaking comedy at Co-op Live on 29 (rescheduled from 23) and 30 (rescheduled from 24) April 2024. All tickets remain valid and ticket holders will be contacted by their point of purchase. Refunds will be available for those who can no longer attend. We are very sorry for the inconvenience that this change will undoubtedly cause for some.

"We are thrilled to welcome Peter Kay as our grand opening act just a few days later than planned."

Of course, this didn't happen.

Peter Kay said at the time: “I’m truly gutted as I know how disappointing this will be for everyone with tickets, but obviously it’s a brand-new venue and it’s important that everything is finished and safe for full capacity audiences.”

“Fortunately, we’ve been able to reschedule the shows to next week, (I’ll have to miss my Bums & Tums class) but hopefully I’ll see you then."

The new 23,500-seater arena is set to be the UK's largest indoor space, with other acts such as Liam Gallagher, Take That, Pearl Jam and Olivia Rodrigo already set to play there some point this year.

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