Black Seeds cancel, but NZSO plays on

The Black Seeds have postponed their Christchurch show scheduled for Saturday.

The decision to postpone was the band's only option, with the state of emergency extension in place for another seven days in the central CBD following Saturday's 7.1 quake.

With no guarantees of reliable power and water, plus the threat of further aftershocks, the band said it was unwise to go ahead.

A new date of October 30 has been set and will take place at the same venue - The Bedford - which has not been affected by the quakes and is structurally sound.

All tickets will be transferable to the new date, or anyone wanting a refund can contact the ticketing outlets.

Black Seeds frontman Barnaby Weir said the band's thoughts went out to the people of Canterbury.

"Our sincere apologies for having to postpone, but we're looking forward to coming back in October and playing for the people of Christchurch," he said.

All other shows on the band's South Island tour scheduled for this week in Dunedin, Queenstown and Timaru are still going ahead as planned.

Tickets for the new Christchurch show on October 30 will go on sale from Saturday.

Meanwhile, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra has announced a free concert in Christchurch next week as respite for quake-rattled residents.

The Soundscapes concert was already scheduled for next Thursday at the Christchurch Town Hall, but now entry will be free.

NZSO chief executive Peter Walls said it was the orchestra's way of showing support.

"Many among the orchestra have family and friends caught up in the devastating consequences of the earthquake."

Christchurch mayor Bob Parker said the concert would be a welcome respite. 

"After the hardships of the last few days, I'm really pleased the NZSO is offering the people of Christchurch an opportunity to enjoy each other's company, and wonderful symphonic music."

People who want to attend can call Ticketek to reserve seats, or can try their luck on the night. Anyone who had already bought a ticket could get a voucher from the venue giving them free admission to a future concert.

The concert features Scottish percussion star Colin Currie and the NZSO performing Veni, Veni, Emmanuel by James Macmillan.

The NZSO will also perform works by Maurice Ravel and Richard Strauss, and the Four Seas Interludes from the Benjamin Britten opera Peter Grimes.

- NZPA and The Press

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