All systems are a go for "Woodstock 50" following reports that the festival has been canceled. There were rumors floating about that the outdoor concert faced a number or production issues, and there was speculation that if they couldn't get things straightened out, concertgoers may have another Fyre Fest on their hands. The festival's financer Dentsu Aegis Network released a lengthy statement through Billboard just yesterday, giving their apologies while writing that "Woodstock 50" was a wrap.
"It’s a dream for agencies to work with iconic brands and to be associated with meaningful movements. We have a strong history of producing experiences that bring people together around common interests and causes which is why we chose to be a part of the Woodstock 50th Anniversary Festival. But despite our tremendous investment of time, effort and commitment, we don’t believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name while also ensuring the health and safety of the artists, partners and attendees," the statement reads. "As a result and after careful consideration, Dentsu Aegis Network’s Amplifi Live, a partner of Woodstock 50, has decided to cancel the festival. As difficult as it is, we believe this is the most prudent decision for all parties involved.”
As quickly as that statement made the rounds was as swiftly as there were denials that the festival had been given the ax. Confirming that "Woodstock 50" is scheduled to move forward this August was an attorney for the festival named Marc Kasowitz. “This confirms that Woodstock 50 is proceeding with the planning and production of the festival,” he said in a statement. “Dentsu has no legal right or ability to cancel it. All stakeholders, including the entertainers, should proceed with the understanding that the event will take place as planned and if they have any questions, they should reach out directly.”
According to Rolling Stone, the festival's co-founder, Michael Lang, sent out a newsletter that read, "We have yet to understand why [financer Dentsu-Aegis] would try to prevent the festival from happening by seemingly undermining us in this way,” he wrote. “It is one thing to decide for oneself that it is best to move on, but it is entirely another thing to try and close the door on us. … Woodstock never belonged to Dentsu, so they don’t have a right to cancel it.”
Woodstock 50 is scheduled for August 16, 17, and 18 in Watkins Glen, New York.