Unanswered prayers as Garth gigs definitely off

In a case of unanswered prayers for Garth Brooks and his fans alike, it was confirmed late last night (Monday) that none of the country music star’s planned five gigs in Croke Park will be going ahead later this month.

A statement from Aiken Promotions regarding the event said last night that “despite pursuing all possible solutions, the five concert Garth Brooks Comeback Special Event at Croke Park is cancelled”.

“No concerts will take place,” it added, in case anyone was still unsure.

The news is sure to mean the 400,000 fans who bought tickets to see the star are now in pieces.

Organisers no doubt thought they had covered all bases and there were no fences left to get over with regard to a licence for the gigs. However everything came unstuck after a licence was granted to just three of the five planned.

Garth Brooks later said he would play five gigs or none, and turned down a suggestion from Dublin City Council that two of the gigs be held somewhere other than the night - namely as matinee shows on two of the days other gigs would go ahead.

“We Shall be Free” is surely now the response of the 400,000 people who had planned to attend one of the five gigs meant to take place on July 25, 26, 27, 28 and 29, when asked what their plans are now. As for Garth Brooks himself, that summer in Dublin 2014 is bound to become more than a memory, and not in a good way.

The ticket return process for the gigs will begin on Thursday, July 17 at 9am through Ticketmaster.