Accessibility issues spark outrage after Gary Barlow concert ticket confusion

In Middlesbrough, England, fans of Gary Barlow encountered significant obstacles while attempting to obtain accessible tickets for his concert at the Stockton Globe. The issue arose during the pre-sale phase, where individuals with disabilities struggled to secure tickets due to a technical error that excluded accessible seating from the available options. Jennifer Gallacher, one of the affected fans, shared her frustration over the lack of accessible ticket options during this important sales period. The theatre’s owner, ATG Entertainment, acknowledged the problem and attributed it to a technical glitch that impeded the accessibility of tickets at the start of the pre-sale. Despite the venue being well-regarded for its accessibility features, the mishap raised serious concerns about the inclusion of accessible tickets in pre-sale events. Gallacher emphasized the need for everyone, including individuals with disabilities, to be given equal opportunities to participate in pre-sale activities. In response to the outcry, representatives from ATG Entertainment contacted those who were affected, including Gallacher, and worked swiftly to resolve the issue by allowing her to buy accessible tickets shortly after the initial problem was identified. The operator of the ticket-selling website, SJM Concerts, mentioned that most venues manage and book their own accessible tickets, underscoring the importance of internal coordination in preventing such errors. The situation highlights broader issues regarding ticket accessibility for individuals with disabilities in live events, emphasizing the need for venues and promoters to ensure that systems in place cater to all fans. This incident serves as a reminder that the accessibility journey involves various stakeholders and that improvements are needed to avoid disadvantaging people with disabilities in entertainment settings.