Sefton Council can confirm after extensive discussions, tonight’s free Cristal Palace showcase will not go ahead due to the expected serious impact of Storm David.
This decision has been taken not only due to the effects it will have on the crane & chandelier but more importantly to protect the safety of our audiences, staff, performers and volunteers on the ground.
Safety
A spokesperson for Sefton Council said: “This is hugely disappointing for all involved. Performers have travelled from France with hundreds of people behind the scenes working incredibly hard for months to try and deliver this show for everybody to enjoy. We would like to thank them for their tireless efforts.
“We’d especially like to send a huge thank you to the dozens of local young dancers and brilliant volunteer performers who still had a chance to share their talent in front of their hometown yesterday evening.
“Finally thank you to everyone who travelled into Southport to show their support for the event and especially those who showed such understanding and kindness to our staff for the safety decisions taken. Your support for Southport and its local businesses is invaluable.
“We are already working hard to bring some aspects of the show back later this year and further details will be provided in due course.”
Claire McColgan CBE, Associate Director of Culture for Liverpool City Region added: “So much hard work had gone into it from all the community and actors.
“Outdoor events have one enemy which is the weather, whatever time of year and what makes them brilliant also means you are at the will of things out of your control.
“The dance was beautiful and the warmth of the audience was just what we have come to expect from Southport. I am so sorry for all the team and performers but safety always comes first.”
Big Top Festival
Of course there’s even more to look forward to this year as part of the Southport 2026: Elegantly Eccentric programme. Next up is Big Top Festival, taking place on 2–3 May, bringing world‑class circus performers to Southport for the May Bank Holiday.
This brand new two day celebration of circus, clowning, colour and creativity will be a celebration of the arts suitable for all ages and is once again completely free of charge. And yes, we will be checking the weather.