Montreal jazz festival cancels controversial show after criticism

MONTREAL - The Montreal International Jazz Festival is cancelling the remaining presentations of a show that has been criticized because it features a white woman singing songs composed by black slaves.

The festival says in a statement it is apologizing to anyone who was hurt.

The decision comes a day after U.S. musician Moses Sumney cancelled a gig at the jazz festival to protest the SLAV shows.

At the premiere last week, about 75 protesters staged a demonstration outside the theatre that was hosting the performance, which was directed by renowned Quebec playwright Robert Lepage.

Police had to form a cordon to block protesters in order to allow people to enter.

The festival says it considers inclusion and reconciliation between communities essential.

(1/2) Since the beginning of SLĀV performances, the Festival team has been shaken and strongly affected by all comments received. We would like to apologize to those who were hurt. It was not our intention at all. Please read: https://t.co/xb0Kj9gsIj
— Mtl Jazz Festival (@MtlJazzFestival) July 4, 2018