Crowded House fans will receive a refund after the band and promoter disagree on premium tickets

Kiwi music royalty Crowded House has asked their promoter to reimburse fans who bought premium tickets for an upcoming tour, saying the band disagreed with them.

In a statement released online, the band members said they requested that promoter Live Nation reimburse ticket holders who paid more than face value under an “in-demand” promotion for their shows next March.

“Although it may be common practice on other tours, we at Crowded House do not agree with the sale of premium tickets, as Live Nation describes it ‘at market-driven prices where the price is adjusted based on supply and demand. ‘.

“The band had no prior knowledge of these in-demand tickets and did not approve this [programme]. “

The statements were posted on the band’s official Facebook and Twitter pages.

It comes before the long-awaited Crowded House To The Island Tour in March of next year.

The band plans to play in Hamilton, Napier, Nelson, Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown, Wellington, Palmerston North, Auckland and New Plymouth.

On the Live Nation and Ticketek website, tickets range from $ 112.40 to $ 242.40 VIP (individual) Hot Seat.

The VIP package hot seat ticket comes with a premium reserved seat in the first 15 rows, an exclusive t-shirt, a drink voucher to exchange for a beer, wine or soft drink, a laminated commemorative pass for the VIP tour, a VIP check designated. on and on the site host.

It also allows holders a priority entry to the venue, depending on the venue.

A Live Nation spokeswoman said this morning that it is always up to the artist how their tickets are priced and sold, especially for on-demand tickets, as they are designed to ensure that all value goes back to the artist, rather than “filling the pockets of resellers “.

“We are grateful that we were able to resolve this miscommunication and fulfill ticket sales in accordance with the wishes of the band,” he said.

The band members recognized what has been a challenging year for the live entertainment industry and said that they, like their promoter, were delighted to be able to participate in the 10-date national tour.

“We are very excited and energetic to be touring New Zealand in March,” reads a statement on their website.

“The shows will be a joyous occasion for us, with all the songs from our history to resonate, some new music to unveil, and our local crowds to share all of that with … feeling truly blessed.”