AP News, April 17th, 2007
Big & Rich left fans disappointed after they backed out of an April 12 concert at the last minute because of a dispute over a young guest.
The country music duo of "Big Kenny" Alphin and former Lonestar singer John Rich had been set to perform at the San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino.
To accommodate the wishes of an ill 5-year-old girl, a local radio station had arranged for the young fan and her family to meet Big & Rich and see the show. But the casino, which bans anyone under 21, wasn't notified.
"While we are sympathetic to the request from the young fan, we are held accountable to the requirements that prevent anyone under the age of 21 from entering our facility at any time," Steve Lengel, director of casino operations, said in a statement.
Big & Rich then canceled the show.
About 1,600 people were allegedly kept waiting in the arena for over an hour before it was announced that Big & Rich wouldn't perform. Refunds were offered.
"This was an unfortunate incident and caused great inconvenience for our guests," Lengel said.
Rich said in a statement that he was concerned about offending fans.
"We did have the opportunity to spend some quality time with the young girl and her family on our bus that evening. I am sorry for the girl, the family and all our fans that did not get to see the show," Rich said.
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