NewsBite

KISS cancellation could prove a Newcastle 500 crowd killer

Dave Reynolds and his Erebus V8 crew have promised to keep the Newcastle 500 “KISS” party going despite the withdrawal of the legendary rockers.

Erebus Motorsport drivers Dave Reynolds (R) and Anton De Pasquale in KISS makeup. Picture: Jay Town
Erebus Motorsport drivers Dave Reynolds (R) and Anton De Pasquale in KISS makeup. Picture: Jay Town

Dave Reynolds and his Erebus V8 crew have promised to keep the Newcastle 500 “KISS” party going despite the withdrawal of the legendary rockers.

The Bathurst winning driver - known as the V8 joker - even said he would consider wearing KISS inspired make-up during the season ending V8 race.”

That wouldn’t be scary would it?’’ he asked. “We will keep this party going. We aren’t going to let the cancellation spoil our fun. We will rock and roll. We will be wearing wigs in pit-lane, doing the lot.’’

The season-ending Newcastle 500 Supercars race has been left reeling by the sudden cancellation of headline entertainment act KISS.

In a major blow that could become a V8 grand finale crowd killer, Supercars are offering Newcastle 500 refunds after the US mega rock band cancelled an Australian tour at the 11th hour.

KISS were set to headline a Saturday night super concert ahead of the season ending final Supercars race on Sunday week.

Supercars CEO Sean Seamer confirmed refunds on concert upgrade tickets will be issued following the withdrawal bombshell prompted by an illness to KISS lead singer Paul Stanley.

Stream the 2019 Coates Hire Newcastle 500. Live & Ad-Break Free During Racing on KAYO SPORTS. Get your 14-day free trial and start streaming instantly >

Erebus Motorsport drivers Dave Reynolds (R) and Anton De Pasquale in KISS makeup. Picture: Jay Town
Erebus Motorsport drivers Dave Reynolds (R) and Anton De Pasquale in KISS makeup. Picture: Jay Town

“It is with sadness that we inform our fans that KISS has cancelled their upcoming tour of Australia which includes the scheduled performance as part of the Newcastle 500 concert scheduled for Saturday 23rd November 2019,” Seamer said.

“As a result, the concert featuring performances by both KISS and The Screaming Jets has been cancelled.

“This matter is completely out of our hands and we are extremely disappointed for our fans.

“While the decision is out of our control, we sincerely apologise to The Screaming Jets, Supercars fans and KISS fans alike.”

Set to run special KISS liveries for the final round, Erebus Motorsport said they will not ditch the band-inspired car war paint for the Newcastle 500.

The team will also go ahead with a KISS themed open day at their Victorian workshop this weekend.

Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley.

“Erebus Motorsport will open the doors to its Melbourne headquarters this Sunday for a Kiss-themed open day despite the recent cancellation of the bands Australian tour,’’ Erebus said in a statement.

“The team debuted their KISS race suits and liveries at the Gold Coast three weeks ago and will bring them back for the season finale in Newcastle, although the band has today been forced to cancel their Australian tour to illness.

“Both KISS and the tour promoters are absolutely gutted by the news and sincerely apologise to fans.

“The day will still celebrate the legendary rock band, as they look to return next year.

“It will feature live music, driver signings, prize giveaways and the opportunity to purchase memorabilia and merchandise.

“The team encourages attendees to dress in their best Kiss-inspired attire, with a hot lap awarded to the best dressed.

“Those musically talented will also be invited to bring their own guitar and play a KISS riff with prizes also presented to the best guitar solo.

“A sausage sizzle will also be held, with gold coin donations going to the NSW Rural Fire Service.

“The team wish Paul Stanley and Kiss all the best and a full recovery.’’

Originally published as KISS cancellation could prove a Newcastle 500 crowd killer

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/motor-sport/v8-supercars/kiss-cancellation-could-prove-a-newcastle-500-crowd-killer/news-story/ec151e8e1c90420abdd913c6ecb029fc