Denise Ho Says Arts Centre Cancels Her Booking

Singer Denise Ho said on Wednesday the Hong Kong Arts Centre has cancelled her venue booking for a series of upcoming performances, citing concerns about public safety.

In a statement on social media, Ho, who participated in protests in Hong Kong, said her team has been accused by the Arts Centre of breaching a clause of the terms and conditions of hire.

The clause states that a confirmed booking can be cancelled without notice if the hirer fails to observe the terms and conditions, or in situations "where public order or public safety would be endangered during the course of the performance".

According to Ho's team, the accusations were made without proof. "We have urged the HKAC for further elaborations, but only received a vague reply stating that 'the management of the Arts Centre is duty bound to observe closely the recent developments in society and the laws concerned'."

The statement adds, "We have thoroughly examined our released materials and show contents, but could not see where or how this performance or hiring has the possibility to endanger, or will endanger, public order or safety at all.

"We doubt very much where the HKAC is heading, and how they are going to face the public in the future."

She added that her team reserve the rights to pursue legal action and claim all losses and damages.

In a statement issued late Wednesday, the HKAC apologised to the audiences who have purchased tickets, as well as those affected by the cancellation of the shows.

"Subsequent to the approval of the venue application earlier, HKAC has decided to cancel the event upon consideration of the relevant contractual provisions, social conditions and the related laws. HKAC will make appropriate arrangements with the organiser and liaise with the latter on all follow up issues," a spokesperson said, without elaborating further.

Ho said refund arrangements for her shows at the Shouson Theatre from September 8 to 12 will be announced later, but an online live broadcast will take place as planned on September 12.

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