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SeaWorld "Disappointed" at Band Cancellations

December 13th, 2013 | SeaWorld says it's disappointed that some bands have decided not to perform at its Orlando theme park next year. The bands canceled after they were petitioned in an online campaign by critics of the theme park.

Musicians who have pulled out of performing at Seaworld’s Bands, Brew and BBQ event include Tricia Yearwood, Cheap Trick, Willie Nelson and the Barenaked Ladies.

The bands were petitioned to boycott the park on the website change.org

Some of the petitions refer to the film Blackfish, a documentary about the death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau in 2010. The film is critical of the conditions in which marine mammals like Orcas- or killer whales- are housed at the theme park.

In a statement to 90.7 News, SeaWorld spokesman Nick Gollatscheck said “While we’re disappointed a small group of misinformed individuals was able to deny fans what would have been great concerts, we respect the bands’ decision.”

"The bands and artists have a standing invitation to visit any of our parks to see firsthand or to speak to any of our animal experts to learn for themselves how we care for animals and how little truth there is to the allegations made by animal extremist groups opposed to the zoological display of marine mammals," said Gollatscheck. 

SeaWorld says the benefits of zoological display include conservation of wild populations, animal rescue and scientific research. 

 

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