Unless you’ve been living under a rock the past week or so, you’ve no doubt heard about the horrific terrorist attack at an Ariana Grande in Manchester, which killed nearly 20 and injured more than twice that number. Naturally, people are a little weary of going to big arena shows, or frankly anywhere where there’s a crowd of people.
TMZ reports that Live Nation, the live events company, is offering refunds for upcoming concerts in the UK for any ticketholders who don’t feel comfortable attending. Katy Perry, Iron Maiden, KISS, Robbie Williams, Phil Collins, Depeche Mode, and James Arthur are some of the acts eligible for refunds. Live Nation has yet to decide on shows outside of the UK.
This isn’t the only instance of people backing out of shows, however; musicians are doing it too. Blondie was set to perform this past Tuesday in London but postponed the show. “We are working to reschedule the event, and we will communicate details as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.” Take That also joined in the trend, postponing their show in Liverpool on Tuesday night, as well as the three shows in Manchester scheduled for this weekend.
In addition to offering refunds, Live Nation is also stepping up security at all of their events and festivals, and while that is ultimately a good thing, you’re gonna feel like you’re back in an airport with wait times getting through security.
There was a memorial for the Manchester attacks in the city’s St. Anne Square. After a moment of silence, it was reported that the crowd broke out into a sing-a-long of Oasis’ “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” and there’s video to confirm it. As tragic as this event is, don’t let it stop you from enjoying beautiful music.