1. A statement from Andrew
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9th, June, 2013

A statement from Andrew

Andrew Lloyd Webber today shared his profound disappointment at not being able to attend tonight’s Tony Awards in New York. He has been battling with pain for several months and is therefore unable to be present as the US theatre world salutes the twenty-fifth anniversary of the staging of “The Phantom of the Opera” on Broadway.

“I am devastated not to be able to attend the Tony Awards in New York tonight where “The Phantom of the Opera” is being honoured for its twenty five years on Broadway. My colleagues felt that it is time to explain why I have been unable to participate fully in my professional and social life over the last eight months.

I have been in constant pain since October 2012 following treatment for a problem with my right thigh. As a consequence I have undergone countless medical procedures and two major back operations.

This has affected my ability to undertake my normal work schedule. I was unable to attend the 25th anniversary of “The Phantom of the Opera” on Broadway or the opening of “The Wizard of Oz” in Toronto, Canada earlier this year. I also had to miss the funeral of my good friend Michael Winner and have had to cancel many other personal engagements.

I have refrained from saying anything until now, but I have had to reluctantly agree with my colleagues that I needed to explain why I have had to withdraw from the Tonys tonight. I do not intend to comment further.”