Rag 'n' Bone Man cancelled his headline slot at Cardiff Castle's Depot in the Castle event on Saturday due to a throat infection, prompting criticism from some fans over the lack of refunds. Organisers replaced the Brit Award-winning singer with Craig David's TS5 set, but ticket-holders who bought tickets specifically for Rag 'n' Bone Man expressed disappointment.
Jane Massey, 40, from Tonypandy, said: 'I understand people are unwell, but I feel something should be offered, be it a partial refund or money off another event.' Mark Sadler, 47, from Newport, had brought his 10-year-old son Dan to his first concert to see Rag 'n' Bone Man, calling the cancellation 'disappointing'.
However, many in the near-9,000 crowd praised the replacement act. One attendee said: 'It was an amazing experience... hats off to Craig David for doing the show at such short notice.' Another noted that terms and conditions were agreed at purchase, adding: 'It is unfortunate but does happen.'
Depot in the Castle organisers defended the decision, stating the event was a festival, not a Rag 'n' Bone Man concert, and that line-up changes were permitted under their terms. A spokesperson said: 'We pulled out all the stops to provide a replacement... Craig David and his team put on a phenomenal show. We are therefore unable to issue refunds.' Attendance reached nearly 9,000, with very few unused tickets.
Rag 'n' Bone Man apologised on social media, writing: 'So sorry to say that I am still too unwell to play... I'm gutted but have to follow doctors orders.' The organisers added they were 'gutted' but that the singer withdrew under 'strict doctor's orders'.
