A Magic Mike-style strip show has been cancelled at a venue in Swansea after concerns were raised that it was "too raunchy". The performance, featuring male performer Will Parfitt, was due to take place at Brangwyn Hall at the end of October but has been axed.
Will Parfitt, 36, who stars in the touring production Magic Men, said he was devastated when he learned the show had suddenly been cancelled. He found out after supporters began contacting him to ask why the planned event would not be going ahead.
Performer's reaction to cancellation
Parfitt, who has accumulated millions of followers across his social media accounts, said he is gutted for the supporters who were anticipating the performance. He said: "It's actually so upsetting. We are so frustrated about it. We only had two shows in Wales so it's frustrating."
He added: "They told us they had just cancelled. They said the show was 'too raunchy'."
Reflecting on earlier performances in Wales, Parfitt said: "They are some of the best shows we have done. The show we did in North Wales was amazing. It was so good because the audience were so up for it. We did Cardiff two years ago and that was so much fun. For them to have just cancelled it - it's such a disappointment."
Impact on fans and production
Parfitt noted it is a setback for the performers, who receive payment for each show, and voiced dismay for fans, some of whom had already booked hotels for planned trips to see the show. He said: "I just feel bad for the girls who booked to see us. People booked hotels and planned to travel to Wales. That's the worst thing for me is we feel like we have let them down. We have done all we can to help them come to another show. We will try to upgrade them any way we can."
The production has grown since it launched in Australia years ago, evolving from a modest show into a large-scale production that sells thousands of tickets and tours globally. Parfitt, who has drawn comparisons to Hollywood star Channing Tatum, has previously said the show defies expectations and bears no resemblance to stereotypes people might imagine.
Venue and council response
A spokesperson for Swansea Council said: "We've taken the decision not to go ahead with Saturday's Magic Men show at the Brangwyn Hall following concerns raised with us. We're sorry for the disappointment this will cause. We've contacted everyone who bought tickets and they will receive a full refund."
