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Steve Harley – Thank you

We were all saddened to learn of Steve’s passing yesterday and we pass our condolences and love to Steve’s family at this time.

Steve performed at Acapela 20 times over the last 7 years and his annual visit of 3 sold out concerts were always eagerly anticipated by the Acapela team and audiences. He could have played much larger venues in Cardiff and South Wales but after his first visit he always returned, loving the intimate atmosphere and the welcoming crowd at the venue.

When he first agreed to perform at the venue we all knew that this was going to be very special night, what we did not know then was how much his performances and his support over the years would impact on the future of Acapela.  Because he played Acapela for three nights and returned each year, it raised the venues profile dramatically and as a result other famous names and bands followed. Steve’s support, enthusiasm and interest in the venue is certainly one of the reasons that Acapela has achieved such success in becoming one of the best loved music venues in the UK.

He was the ultimate professional, always striving for perfection, always keen to ensure that his audience got the very best performance. On his first visit (the first night of 3) I think it’s fair to say we were in awe and were run ragged by his drive for the perfect set up.  When he eventually went on stage, we all breathed a huge sigh of relief and with some trepidation nervously stood in the shadows – thinking that as a venue we may perhaps not have reached the very high standards he set!

At the end of the concert, after a long standing ovation and thunderous applause, he came off stage and took time to tell me “what an incredible experience that was”. On stage that night he was superb. I particularly remember his performance of his classic “Sebastian”.  It still sends shivers down my spine. I don’t think I have ever heard a live performance of a song that has ever had such a huge impact on myself and an audience. When the song finished an emotional Steve thanked everyone, telling them that he could not remember such a reaction to the song from an audience – he was right the applause was long and deafening as everyone in the venue rose to their feet as the final chords rang out.

That was a start of a beautiful relationship between Steve and the Acapela audience as he would return giving equally incredible performances year in, year out.

Steve brought many great musical memories in his career to so many, he also brought so many personal musical memories to the very many of his fans at Acapela who attended his gigs over the years in the chapel.

I always enjoyed chatting to Steve on his visits, he was appreciative of the way our team looked after him, was excited to hear about the venues growing popularity and interested to learn about it’s history and the places to visit in the local area. I will especially remember the short chats I had with him as he waited on a chair outside the stage door. Here he would wait as the lights went down and everything was checked so that he could go on stage. These chats lasted no more than 3 or 4 minutes each night, however on every occasion he would ensure that I knew he was grateful for everything we did and took time to ask me if I was happy with everything. Of course, we always were as we were so pleased and honoured that such a musical legend chose to support the venue every year.  He often discussed with me where he planned to visit locally tomorrow or where he had visited today, often asking me for ideas as to where he should visit as he had a free afternoon the next day. He was knowledgeable about so much and had such a tremendous desire to learn more.

We will miss you Steve, your music, your professionalism and above all your support for Acapela over so many years.

THANK YOU STEVE – for everything.

 

Paul James  – Programme Director

 

 

 

Steve Harley – Postponed concerts

Many of you will be aware that Steve Harley has now cancelled all concerts in 2024 whilst he is receiving cancer treatment. Please see the announcement below from Steve’s website that confirms the current position. We are hoping to announce rescheduled dates, when announced if you are unable to make this new date you will be able to request a refund. In the meantime, if ticket holders wish to request a refund immediately you can do so now by emailing info@acapela.co.uk.

“Steve Harley is disappointed to announce the rescheduling, with immediate effect, of the Steve Harley ‘Come Up And See Me and Other Stories’ shows that were scheduled to take place in March, April, May and June 2024, whilst he recovers from ill health. 

Ticket holders will be contacted directly by the relevant venues with details regarding the new dates, which will take place in Spring 2025. The shows planned for Whitby, Stafford and Solihull within that period of time are cancelled, and ticket holders should return to their point of purchase for refund.

Additionally, the Steve Harley Acoustic Band shows within the same period will be rescheduled.

Due to on-going treatment for cancer, Steve cannot commit to any concerts in 2024. Steve is hoping next year will be altogether different. He appreciates all your kind words and good wishes . Team SH”

Amy Wadge – rescheduled dates now announced

We have now confirmed new dates with Amy for the concerts postponed in December 2023. The new dates are as follows:
11th December has been rescheduled to 20th May 2024
12th December has been rescheduled to 21st May 2024
If you are unable to make these dates you have until the 25th February to request a refund by emailing info@acapela.co.uk . 
After this date our usual no refund ticket policy will be strictly applied. 

Sharon Shannon Concert 18th February 2024 CANCELLED

Regrettably we have just been informed by Sharon’s management that the UK tour is to be  cancelled.
A message on her website gives the following information:
“It is with deep regret we have to confirm that due to unforeseen health and personal circumstances, we have had to make the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming UK tour for Sharon.

Sharon is under strict doctor’s instructions that she needs to rest and prioritise her health and personal well-being for the next few weeks.

This decision was not made lightly, and Sharon expresses her sincere apologies to her fans and supporters who were looking forward to the performances.

Sharon appreciates the understanding and support of her fans during this time and we kindly request respect for her privacy during this period.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the fans, venues, and partners for their effort and continued support.”

We will refund all ticket monies immediately – this may take up to 7 days to reach your account.

Regards

Paul James – Programme Director

Catfish – 21st February 2024 – Rescheduled

As many of you will be aware Matt the lead singer of Catfish has been receiving treatment for cancer over the last year and whilst this is going well, regrettably Matt has to undertake another round of treatment just before scheduled concerts in February and has been advised he will not be able to perform for a few weeks after this treatment.  This period includes the date of the Acapela concert and as a result we have rescheduled the concert to give Matt the support required to complete his recovery.
The new date for the concert is Thursday 1st August 2024. 
All tickets and tables have been automatically transferred to the new date. If you cannot make the new date you have until the 16th February 2024 to request a refund by emailing info@acapela.co.uk, after this date the venues no ticket refund policy will be strictly applied.
We apologies for any disappointment caused by this announcement, however I am sure you will wish us to send Matt best wishes as he faces his next round of treatment.
Please do come to the new date if you can and bring a friend so that we can show our full support to Matt and the band.
Paul James
Programme Director
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