Theatre show cancelled at last minute - literally (From Worcester News)

Malvern Theatres show Disco Inferno cancelled at last minute - literally

11:40am Wednesday 29th August 2012 in News By Neil Watts

THE last-minute cancellation of a new show has left theatre-goers fuming and theatre bosses red-faced.

Members of the audience at Malvern Theatres were awaiting the final performance of Disco Inferno, a 70s-inspired musical, on Saturday when it was announced at about 7.15pm the show had been pulled due to a dispute.

The Grange Road theatre saw the launch of the national tour on Tuesday, August 21.

The show starred former EastEnders actor Sam Attwater and singer Javine Hylton, with a set boasting more than 30 classic dance floor numbers including Hot Stuff, Signed Sealed Delivered and Relight My Fire.

Nic Lloyd, chief executive of Malvern Theatres, said: “We are deeply sorry that the evening’s performance of Disco Inferno was cancelled on Saturday at such short notice.

"At about 7.15pm there had been a dispute between the producer of the show and the company, which sadly resulted in them cancelling the performance.

“Unfortunately, their decision was completely beyond our control and we are very sorry for the inconvenience and disappointment caused. This is an incredibly rare occurrence.”

One of the show’s stars, Dani Harmer, who is perhaps best known for playing the title role in CBBC’s Tracy Beaker, posted an apology on Twitter the same day.

She said: “I would just like to send a massive apology to everyone that has booked tickets to see Disco Inferno.

"Unfortunately the tour has been cancelled! On behalf of all the cast thank you to all your amazing tweets from you guys who have seen and enjoyed it! We’re all gutted xxx.”

The musical’s website carried a simple message announcing the cancellation, adding they were awaiting an official statement from the show’s producer Garth Harrison of Disco Inferno Productions. Andrew Bull, of Bishops Avenue, Worcester, and five guests were left disappointed.

“We were very disappointed to get to the theatre in Malvern only to be told 10 minutes before the show was due to start that the night’s presentation of the show Disco Inferno was cancelled.

No one from the production company was available for comment.

• Did you have tickets to the show? What do you think about the last-minute cancellation? Tell us in the comment box below.