A Christian College in Florida cancelled a show by a cappella group The King's Singers at two hours notice after learning one member's lifestyle "contradicts scripture."
The King's Singers, founded at King's College, Cambridge, UK, were due to perform at Pensacola Christian College's (PCC) last Saturday, before being called off on the day.
"As an institution founded upon and guided by the Bible," PCC said it could not allow the event to continue.
Sharing information about the cancelled gig on social media, the KS said they were "deeply saddened".
"The school gave its reasons for cancellation as 'concerns' expressed about the 'lifestyle' of members of our group,"
"It has become clear to us, from a flood of correspondence from students and members of the public, that these concerns related to the sexuality of members of our group.
"Our belief is that music can build a common language that allows people with different views and perspectives to come together."
The ensemble said they had previously performed at the college, deciding to go ahead "in the knowledge that this is a fundamentalist Christian institution".
"We look forward to seeing our friends in northern Florida again soon, in a context where we're celebrated for who we are, as well as for the music we make."
Sharing information here about the short-notice cancellation of our recent concert in Florida: pic.twitter.com/J8RxfN2147
— The King's Singers (@kingssingers) February 13, 2023
Responding to claims that the act was cancelled due to homophobia, the Christian university released this statement: "Pensacola is a religious liberal arts institution founded upon and guided by the Bible, as reflected in our Articles of Faith. The college cannot knowingly give an implied or direct endorsement of anything that violates Holy Scripture, the foundation for our sincerely held beliefs.”
“At the same time, the college also recognized everyone is created under the image of God and should for afforded the dignity of kindness. PCC cancelled a concert with The King’s Singers upon learning that one of the artists openly maintained a lifestyle that contradicts Scripture. The Highly talented musicians were treated with dignity and respect when informed of the cancelation. The artists stated their understanding and acceptance of the change and were given full remuneration.”
