The Coronavirus, COVID-19, may have led to the cancellation of the Bluesfest 2020 but is has not ended the celebration of of blues ’n roots music in Byron Shire. Peter Noble, Bluesfest director, has declared that Bluesfest 2021 is on!
‘We will find a way to continue and present in 2021. I am a veteran, having been in this incredible industry since the 60s. I have never experienced such a dire situation,’ said Peter in a press release yesterday afternoon.
‘As a premier event we need to present another Bluesfest not only for ourselves but also for the entire entertainment industry to see that there will be a brighter day, and that as an industry we will come back from this. We are humbled by the incredible response we have received by the outpouring of love from our ticket-holders, music industry and importantly from our local community.’
Bluesfest are currently in discussions with agents of artists who were booked to play this easter looking at who might be able to return and play next year.
‘Whilst we currently don’t know “who” all our headliners will be in 2021, we have received feedback from over 30 artists off this year’s bill confirming they are ready to reschedule for 2021. Their level of support and goodwill is inspiring and I foresee a great event to come,’ he said.
‘2021 will be the year for everyone who cares about the arts, music and the entire entertainment industry that we all love, to come out and show their support for each other. We call on our industry, the musicians, the agents and the managers to get in touch with us and help us show the solidarity of strength that we have as a combined force. We are all in this together, and together we will go on and get through these troubled times. Since the ban was announced last Sunday we have gone from having a deep case of the blues to presenting the blues for you again in 2021. This much we know.
‘Time is a healer and one day this will be behind us. It has not been easy and we are still in what is a lengthy process working out the details.’
Refund or roll over
The insurance companies are currently processing the Bluesfest claim and there will be the option of receiving a ticket refund or rolling over your 2020 ticket for a 2021 ticket.
‘We will constantly keep our patrons updated in this area and thank them all again for the patience they have shown. In the meantime, we wish you all good health and to remain strong and positive in these very trying times. See you at Bluesfest,’said Peter.
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