AROUND 50 young children have been left disappointed after three shows had to be scrapped - because the venue did not have enough room.

Organisers admitted an “embarrassing mix up” had caused the cancellation of the interactive show KidO for three and four-year-olds at the Newlands Centre, Romanno Bridge.

Scottish Opera had planned to put on one performance of the enchanting musical adventure on March 15 and two the following day.

But they jointly agreed with managers of the Newlands Centre to cancel the shows when it became evident the venue was not large enough to accommodate the equipment and the audience. Jane Davidson, director of education and outreach at Scottish Opera said: “We are sorry about the cancellation of the performances at the Newlands Centre and we hope to be able to come to the venue in future.

“KidO is specifically designed for three-four year olds and their parents/carers. Due to the interactive nature of the show, there is a limited number of people who can attend each performance, with the aim that those attending will fully benefit from the experience.” Derek Harkins, manager of the Newlands Centre, said: “The decision was taken in tandem by us and Scottish Opera.

“It was a bit of a mix up and it is all a bit embarrassing but unfortunately there just wasn’t going to be enough space for the show.

“Fortunately we managed to find out in good time and were able to let everybody know. We were expecting around 100 to come for the shows, consisting of about half children and half parents or carers.

“It is disappointing but everybody has taken it well and anybody who needed to be refunded has been.” Mr Harkins stressed that no blame should be attached to Scottish Opera over the cancellation of the shows.

“We have a great relationship with them and when they put on a show for us before it was magnificent, so so good,” he said. “We certainly intend to have them back again and I am sure it will be a cracking show.”.

Several exciting puppet and animation shows are scheduled for the Newlands Centre in the near future. For four-year-olds there is Liang and the Magic Paintbrush (April 10) Oscar and the Highland Castle (April 17) and for older children The Man Who Planted Trees on March 28.

“These shows are great and I am sure the children and their parents will enjoy them,” said Mr Harkins.