Confusion continues to surround the Michael Jackson tribute concert today as the line-up announcement was once again delayed.
Promoter Global Live Events had said it would be revealing some of the top headline acts who are set to play the Cardiff-based concert yesterday, but no announcement was ever made.
The acts for Michael Forever – The Tribute Concert were originally meant to be revealed to fans on Wednesday night at a press conference in London, but was cancelled at the last minute.
Registration for tickets on the official concert website was also due to start last night, but today it only has the message: “Please standby for further announcements.”
At 1pm this afternoon, two new statements were posted on the concert’s Facebook page.
The statements read: “The organisers of the Michael Forever Tribute Concert are very mindful of the expectations of the fans, who have waited over two years for an event that will do justice to Michael’s musical legacy. Some of the greatest names in music are already signed, and more are trying to shuffle other commitments to come on board.”
Chairman of Global Live Events Chris Hunt added: “We will be announcing an incredible line-up very soon. The registration period was put on hold because we want people to know who they are registering to see. Between now and October we will be continuing to add names to the line-up so more announcements will follow. Fans of Michael’s music will get the concert they’ve been waiting for.”
Numerous attempts by the Echo yesterday to contact Franklin Rae Communications, which is handling public relations for the show, were unsuccessful.
The complicated ticketing system has been criticised by fans as it involves making a donation to charity, with those making the highest pledges receiving the most expensive tickets.
Jackson fan Mark Evans, from Aberdare, said he was concerned about both the line-up and the ticket registration scheme.
The 49-year-old IT trainer, who has been a fan of Jackson for most of his life, said: “I am really undecided about whether to register because of the palaver with the charity donation, which I am not at all happy about.
“How much do you have to pledge to not be up in the roof? I am a bit concerned about it.
“The line-up also comes into play with how much you will pay for a ticket. Before I buy a ticket I would really rather know who is going to be playing and what to expect.”