Magnetic Asia ‘pained’ to cancel Clockenflap as crisis worsens

Magnetic Asia announced today (Friday 15 November) that the recent worsening of the situation in Hong Kong has made it “impossible” for Clockenflap festival to go ahead as planned next weekend.

The Clockenflap promoter had previously stated its commitment to putting on the festival, despite the cancellation of other high-profile events due to continuing pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

Mumford and Sons, Babymetal, Halsey, Metronomy and Bombay Bicyle Club were among acts billed to play the 60,000-capacity festival from 22 to 24 November.

However, due to “the escalation in the crisis this week, and the uncertainty this creates for the coming weeks” the event has now been cancelled.

“We still believe in bringing people together in positive ways, and will continue to unite people through the power of music and arts”

“While it pains every one of us at Magnetic Asia to cancel Clockenflap 2019, we still believe in bringing people together in positive ways, and will continue to unite people through the power of music and arts,” reads the statement from organisers.

Full refunds will be issued to all those who purchased tickets through official channels.

Fans have shown support for Magnetic Asia on Facebook, thanking the team for their efforts and sympathising with what was evidently a “difficult decision”.

Positivity and determination have characterised the live music community in Hong Kong since unrest began in June. Clockenflap music director and Magnetic Asia co-founder Justin Sweeting has been especially vocal in iterating the potential of music and the arts to bring Hongkongers together in positive ways during difficult times.

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