The “unprecedented” demand for Peter Kay’s first tour in 12 years has prevented many fans from accessing pre-sale applications and websites.
They will be available to the public on Saturday, although O2, Virgin Media, and Three customers get access two days early.
O2 and Virgin stated that it was “by far the greatest demand for priority tickets we’ve ever seen in the past 15 years,” while Three noted that there was “a massive demand.”
Several more performances have been added to the comedian’s itinerary.
In 2010, Kay broke the global record for the most successful stand-up comedy tour by performing for over 1.2 million people.
Due to “unforeseen family issues,” he was unable to go on tour in 2017.
With his upcoming tour, which begins in Manchester on December 2nd, he may break his record.
On Thursday, some fans claimed they were unable to access the relevant applications at all, others claimed they reached the front of the line only to be informed that pre-sale tickets had sold out, while still others were able to choose tickets but could not finish the transaction.
O2 and Virgin, which are owned by the same firm, posted on Twitter: “We’re seeing exceptional demand for Peter Kay tickets, and we realize that many of you cannot get priority.
“We’re currently working on it. Please be patient; this is the largest demand for priority tickets in the past 15 years. The presale lasts for 48 hours, so remain vigilant.”
The business stated, “We are witnessing a high demand for priority tickets.
Three’s Twitter account stated, “Many of you are unable to access the Three + app this morning due to overwhelming demand for Peter Kay tickets. We are working as quickly as possible!
“The presale is open for 48 hours, and we will notify users when the app is back online.”
In a statement, the tour promoter SJM acknowledged and apologized for several technical difficulties customers had while attempting to purchase tickets for Peter Kay’s upcoming live tour through the O2 Priority pre-sale earlier today.
“SJM Concerts would like to reassure customers that extensive preparations have been made for this Saturday’s 10 a.m. major ticket sale.” Tickets will be plentiful throughout the day, so please be patient and purchase through the official ticket retailers listed in the link provided.”
People require laughter
New dates were added in locations including Manchester, Leeds, and Birmingham in response to demand.
Even before his tickets went on sale, Kay stated that he was “overwhelmed” by the response.
The Boltonian attributed the interest to the fact that ticket prices begin at £35 (not counting booking fees) – the same price as during his 2010 tour – excluding booking fees.
“You have to meet them halfway, it’s a tough economy, and that’s why people need a good chuckle,” he remarked.
“I believe that’s why it was on the news because it was something positive for a change.”
In addition to touring the United Kingdom, Kay will be the first comedian to receive a monthly residency at the O2 arena in London between December 2022 and November 2023.
