Conflicting statements from investment partners Dentsu Aegis Network and festival organizers today raised doubts about the fate of the Woodstock 50 festival, scheduled for August 16-18 in Watkins Glen.
According to media reports, Dentsu Aegis Network announced the festival’s cancellation this morning:
“[D]espite our tremendous investment of time, effort and commitment, we don’t believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name while also ensuring the health and safety of the artists, partners and attendees. As a result and after careful consideration, Dentsu Aegis Network’s Amplifi Live, a partner of Woodstock 50, has decided to cancel the festival. As difficult as it is, we believe this is the most prudent decision for all parties involved.”
Festival organizer Woodstock Ventures denied the festival would be canceled. In a statement given to Vulture:
“Woodstock 50 is currently on a call with Dentsu and Woodstock 50 vehemently denies the cancellation of the festival and will be seeking legal remedy to the comments.”
Today’s announcement followed a missed deadline for ticket sales, which were supposed to be available April 22.
We’ve got calls out to organizers and will update this story as we learn more.