Organisers remain cautiously optimistic about summer events, contingent on government decisions and restrictions.
The UK’s £1.1 billion live music industry faces an uncertain summer following the cancellation of Glastonbury for the second consecutive year. With no clear timeline for lifting Covid-19 restrictions, the viability of festivals remains in question.
Glastonbury organisers Michael and Emily Eavis expressed disappointment, stating that despite extensive efforts, the iconic festival, originally scheduled for June 23, could not proceed. Similarly, pop-rock band The 1975 canceled their one-day festival in Finsbury Park and the remainder of their 2021 tour, prioritizing fan and crew safety.
Despite this, other events are still on the calendar. Slam Dunk festival, slated for late May in Leeds and Hatfield, plans to bring pop-punk and emo music to fans. Festival director Ben Ray cautiously admitted that the event hinges on the removal of social distancing measures, which he acknowledges is unlikely by summer.
Major festivals like the Isle of Wight (June 17) and Download (June 4) are moving forward with plans but have refrained from interviews, stating updates will be provided in due course. Festival Republic, which manages Wireless (July 2–4) and the Reading and Leeds festivals (August bank holiday weekend), anticipates more clarity by March 1.
The uncertainty underscores the precarious position of the live music sector, with hopes pinned on government support and progress in managing the pandemic.
