Nigerian comedian and actor AY Makun has announced plans to stage a free show for his fans in Cardiff, United Kingdom, after missing his scheduled performance in the city.
The move comes days after the entertainer apologised for the criticism that followed his absence from the ‘AY Live: Single and Not Searching’ event. He attributed his failure to perform to the organisers’ inability to settle outstanding payments owed to his team.
AY explained that his team was prepared to take the stage but maintained that the balance for their performance, which had been due since September, had not been paid.
He further disclosed that the team had previously honoured an appearance at another event despite facing a similar payment challenge. However, the experience informed his decision to demand full payment before performing at the Cardiff show.
In a new development, the comedian said he is willing to stay back after his UK tour ends on November 1, rearrange his flights and mobilise his colleagues so he can return to Cardiff on November 6 for a free show on November 7.
He, however, noted that the venue and other logistics were yet to be finalised before the date could be officially confirmed.
“This is what I want to do, my UK tour ends on November 1st. After that I am willing to stay, change my flight arrangements and organise my colleagues so that I can return to Cardiff on November 6 and give you a free show on November 7,” he said.
AY also said people who purchased tickets for the original event would be given priority access to the free performance.
He, however, clarified that the proposed show would not affect ticket holders’ right to a refund for the failed event.
“We still need to confirm a suitable venue and finalize the arrangements before the date will be made official. I will pay for the show, bring my colleagues, invite other comedians and artistes who would be available for me. So the people who bought tickets for the original show, will get the first opportunity to attend,” he added.
“Once everything is confirmed, we will explain how everything will work. Please understand that the free show does not remove your right for a refund for the original failed show.
“The organisers still need to explain how ticket holders will receive their refunds and we have also written to the ticketing company to refund people who paid through them. This free show is something I personally want to do for the people of Cardiff and those who travelled to Cardiff.”