BBC axes Electric Proms as part of widespread cutbacks

Event is ditched as part of attempt to save £46 million

The BBC has announced that its Electric Proms gig series has been axed.

The shows had been running annually since 2006 in London primarily at the Roundhouse venue, and had seen acts including Oasis, Paul McCartney and The Streets play.

The decision to not continue them comes after the recent announcement that the BBC will be cutting almost 1,000 jobs across its services, and must deliver a saving of £46 million as part of widespread cutbacks.

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BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music controller Bob Shennan said: “In the current climate we are faced with making difficult decisions, including how to best deliver high-quality live music programming throughout the year in light of continuing efficiency savings.”

He added: “I feel that Radio 2 can achieve the same impact of the Electric Proms in an alternative, more cost-effective way.”

Shennan said that he hoped the BBC would stage live events to replace the Electric Proms, beginning with next month’s BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, set to feature performances from Laura Marling and Bellowhead.

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