White Christmas performances cancelled last minute 'due to Covid'

Performances of White Christmas at Edinburgh Playhouse have been cancelled last minute ‘due to coronavirus’.

Members of the public who queued up for the 2.30pm performance on Saturday were told that the show would not be going ahead.

The Edinburgh venue later confirmed the cancellation was “due to Covid” and apologised “for the inconvenience and disappointment caused”.

The cancellation comes as parts of the musical’s script were revised to be more Covid-friendly – including removing kissing and scenes and cast members told to avoid touching each other.

Angry customers took to the Edinburgh Playhouse Facebook page to complain about the last minute cancellation, after many had travelled from some distance to attend the show.

“Literally just arrived for the evening show and an hours drive later, surely the announcement could have been put up earlier if the afternoon show was also cancelled then the night people would know,” said one upset theatre-goer.

Another added: “Just arrived in Edinburgh after travelling since 9am this morning. What a waste of time and money.”

Meanwhile another angry customer said: “We have just arrived at at our hotel to then receive an email at 15.48 saying show was cancelled, surely if the afternoon performance was cancelled the evening performance ticket holders should have been notified sooner.”

A spokesperson for Edinburgh Playhouse said: “We regret to announce that despite strong measures to ensure the safety of everyone in our production, the 2:30pm and 7:30pm performances of White Christmas [on Saturday] have been cancelled due to Covid.

“We are sorry for the inconvenience and disappointment caused. Bookers, please note that your point of purchase will be in contact shortly with alternative options.

“We want to thank everyone for your continued support and understanding.”