"This concert has been six months in the planning and is one of many events, both cultural and sport, that are taking place across the country on April 25," Apex Entertainment CEO Andrew McManus says.
"It is disappointing that despite our best efforts to present the event in what we believe is an appropriate manner, there has been kickback from certain circles. This is not an Anzac Day concert, it is an event that is taking place on the public holiday of April 25th, as are many other events."
Pandemonium, which was announced last month, will donate $10 per ticket sold from the Sydney event to Wounded Heroes, with the organisation having a presence at the concert on the day.
Pandemonium gates will open 11.30am, with the event to feature a dozen bands across two stages. "We've put together a brilliant line-up of iconic rock & roll acts that is set to deliver an amazing day of music, no matter what the location."
All tickets already purchased for Pandemonium Sydney (previously at The Domain) are 100 per cent valid at Cathy Freeman Park at Sydney Olympic Park Precinct.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has today said Pandemonium would not proceed at The Domain as previoiusly approved.
Apparenty pumped up by a veterans' group and talk-back radio furore, he said, "There's not going to be a rock concert in the middle of the city on Anzac Day". 'Not on my watch', eh, Chris?
"That part of the city should be and will be a place for diggers to commemorate with their friends and their family and for fellow Australians to commemorate the service of those that have given their lives in the service of our country."
RSL NSW president Mick Bainbridge said the concert had been approved without any consultation with the organisation and the event was inappropriate on a "day for respect and quiet contemplation".
Others, including this writer, disagree. While ANZAC Day is indeed an opportunity for quiet reflection for those who have sacrificed, it has not for a long time – if ever – been an all-day commitment to solemnity. Society has long found a way to combine the solace of respect followed by social celebrations – which can include music, God forbid – with hotels and retailers often letting rip after morning observances.
The morning services and ensuing city marches would be completed by the time the music was scheduled to start.
RSL NSW said they understood the music festival's promoter had offered to direct a portion of ticket sales to veterans charities, but that would not be enough. "Anzac Day is not for sale," Bainbridge said.
Pandemonium festival organisers, Apex Entertainment, told scenestr they are working collaboratively with the NSW State Government on a solution pertaining to the location of Pandemonium Sydney, scheduled for Thursday, April 25 in Sydney NSW with a further update "expected very soon".
Pandemonium dates in Victoria and Queensland are not affected.
Pandemonium Music Festival 2024 Tour Dates
Sat 20 Apr - Caribbean Gardens (Melbourne)Thu 25 Apr - Cathy Freeman Park (Sydney)
Sat 27 Apr - Doug Jennings Park (Gold Coast)
Sun 28 Apr - Sandstone Point Hotel (Brisbane)*Blondie not performing
Pandemonium Music Festival 2024 Line-up
Alice CooperBlondie
Placebo
Deep Purple
Wheatus
The Psychedelic Furs
Dead Kennedys
Gang Of Four
Palaye Royale
Wolfmother
Cosmic Psychos
Gyroscope
and introducing Thai solo artist Petch
