A live show by comedian Peter Kay in Birmingham was stopped after a potential suspicious bag was found around the venue. The Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated on May 1, 2026, following the discovery.
Audience members reported that Kay was pulled from the stage about 45 minutes into his performance. The evacuation occurred on the advice of West Midlands Police, who stated they were assisting with the situation.
The venue can seat around 15,800 people. A 19-year-old man was taken into custody during the incident. The safety and security of customers and colleagues is the highest priority for the venue.
The incident took place during Peter Kay’s latest tour across the UK and Ireland, with profits donated to cancer charities. Officials have not confirmed whether any actual threat was posed by the bag.
Key facts:
- A live show by comedian Peter Kay in Birmingham was stopped after a potential suspicious bag was found around the venue.
- The Utilita Arena Birmingham was evacuated and a 19-year-old man was taken into custody.
- The evacuation was precautionary on the advice of West Midlands Police.
Ticket holders will be contacted regarding the incident. This evacuation comes as the UK’s terror threat level has recently been lifted from ‘substantial’ to ‘severe’ for the first time in more than four years following a stabbing incident.
