The Blessed Madonna: Boardmasters set cancelled over political-message restrictions

The Blessed Madonna has cancelled her performance at Boardmasters 2025 after organisers required her to sign a “Show-Stop Procedure” agreement limiting political expression on stage.

The clause reportedly stated that “any political statements, chants or gestures will be observed, but the show will only be stopped if there is a legal or safety breach.” The Blessed Madonna says this amounted to censorship of her art and message, prompting her withdrawal.

She explained that her team received the request in the early hours—around 4 AM—with the stipulation that she acknowledge and comply with the restrictions before going ahead with her set. In a public statement, she described the move as incompatible with her values: “I cannot perform under conditions that compromise my moral clarity.”

Her decision has reignited discussion about political expression in live music, particularly at festivals where organisers balance licensing rules, audience expectations and artists’ freedom of speech. While Boardmasters has not publicly commented in detail, the incident adds to a wider debate over how such policies affect performer autonomy and the cultural role of festivals.

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Words: Steve John / Imagery: Mixmag