Singer-songwriter Neil Diamond has cancelled his 2018 Australian tour and has retired from touring altogether, after recently being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
A statement released by Diamond’s management reads:
“The onset of the disease has made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis but will allow Mr. Diamond to continue his writing, recording and development of new projects. Based on his doctors’ advice, the third leg of Diamond’s 50th Anniversary tour, set to land in Australia and New Zealand this March, has been cancelled.”
Meanwhile, Diamond has apologised to fans, saying, “It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honoured to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years. My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows.
“I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come.
“My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been ‘so good, so good, so good’ thanks to you.”
The Australian leg of Diamond’s 50th Anniversary tour was scheduled to hit huge venues in Townsville, the Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Sydney, Bendigo, Melbourne, Hunter Valley and Adelaide between March and April, but refunds are now being processed.
Neil Diamond 50th Anniversary Australian Tour 2018
Tuesday, 20th March — CANCELLED
1300 Smiles Stadium, Townsville
Tickets: Ticketek
Thursday, 22nd March — CANCELLED
Sunshine Coast Stadium, Sunshine Coast
Tickets: Ticketek
Saturday, 24th March — CANCELLED
Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
Tickets: Ticketek
Tuesday, 27th March — CANCELLED
Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
Tickets: Ticketek
Saturday, 31st March — CANCELLED
Sutton Grange Winery, Bendigo
Tickets: Ticketek
Tuesday, 3rd April — CANCELLED
Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
Tickets: Ticketek
Saturday, 7th April — CANCELLED
Roche Estate, Hunter Valley
Tickets: Ticketmaster
Wednesday, 11th April — CANCELLED
Botanic Park, Adelaide
Tickets: Ticketek
Saturday, 14th April — CANCELLED
Sandalford Estate, Swan Valley, Perth
Tickets: Ticketek