Manchester Pride issues update on Disney Orchestra performance and Candlelit Vigil - full statement

A scheduled performance at Manchester Pride will not go ahead as planned today.

The Disney Orchestra show on the Alan Turing Stage has had to be pulled by organisers ahead of tonight’s Candlelight Vigil at Sackville Gardens.

The heavy rain over Pride weekend means the decision has been taken to protect the area ahead of this evening’s special gathering. Sackville Gardens will be closed until around 8pm with the vigil scheduled to get under way at 9pm.

A Pride statement read: “We’re sorry that we’re unable to run the Disney Orchestra Stage performance planned on the Alan Turing Stage today.

“Due to the heavy rain we’ve experienced over the weekend the ground within Sackville Gardens has become muddy with several areas of standing water. We’ve worked hard throughout the weekend to protest the grass and to continue to deliver an accessible, safe space.

“Manchester Pride is all about bringing out communities together, no more so than at the Candlelight Vigil. Our priority is to ensure we can deliver this event safely within the sacred area of Sackville Gardens. The Gardens will be closed until approximately an hour before the Vigil starts at 9pm. We advise those attending the Vigil to wear boots or wellies.

“We still have a full line-up of entertainment across The Village Stage, MancUnity Stage and around the Gay Village for you to enjoy.”