Oh pity those poor souls who queued in the Greenwich wastelands to be the first to see Michael Jackson play in the UK. For the first four shows of his O2 residency have been postponed.

A statement issued today, May 20th, by the promoters reads: "Due to the sheer magnitude of the 'This Is It' concerts at the O2 Arena promoters and producers AEG Live and Kenny Ortega, Michael's directorial partner and creative collaborator have elected to move back a few of the opening shows in order to meet the challenges presented by such a massive and technically complex show.

"Organisers are determined that all Michael's legions of fans attending the opening nights get the same quality of staging and level of entertainment.

"Kenny and Michael are, at the same time, both creative pioneers and perfectionists. This show has grown in size and scope, thereby, necessitating more lead time for manufacture of the set, programming the content for the massive video elements, and, most importantly, more time for full production and dress rehearsals in the world’s busiest arena, the O2.

"As much as we agonized over this change in the original schedule, we are sure the fans will understand when they experience the level of entertainment Michael Jackson intends to deliver while also ensuring the safety of the musicians, cast and crew and the crisp execution of the production.

"It is AEG Live's sincere hope that those lucky enough to have purchased tickets will have enough time to change their personal schedules and travel plans if they are coming from outside of London. We do not want anyone to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Rescheduled dates are thus:

July 8th moved to July 13th 2009 July 10th moved to March 1st 2010 July 12th moved to March 3rd 2010 July 14th moved to March 6th 2010