Perhaps you already read the news today, as it was reported on Billboard, Breitbart, CNN, Daily Mail, Fox News, People.com, Page Six, PopCulture.com and a radio station website.
The Rick Springfield & Friends fan trip that was scheduled to take place this November at the Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana has been rescheduled to the Hard Rock Hotel Cancun in 2020.
In some of these articles, RS was referred to as “the ‘Jessie’s Girl’ Singer” and a “1980s hitmaker” and the fan getaway was called “an upcoming show,” “an upcoming performance,” a “gig” and a “music festival.”
But to devoted Rick Springfield fans who know he is much more than “the ‘Jessie’s Girl’ singer” and “1980s hitmaker,” the fan getaway is the ultimate RS trip because it’s a multi-day RS extravaganza filled with concerts (from acoustic poolside singalongs to piano bar singalongs with special guests to full-band rockin’ concerts), meet-and-greets, fun activities and a whole resort (or cruise ship, depending on the type of getaway) filled with people who feel the same way you do about your favorite rock star.
Disclaimer: I’ve never actually been on one of these trips, but this is my impression of it based on social media posts and videos I’ve watched.
Here’s the full statement, as found on RS’s official website:
Dear Friends,
We have been closely monitoring the situation in the Dominican Republic. In an abundance of caution and for the peace of mind and well-being of my fans, band and crew, the ‘Rick Springfield & Friends’ event in Punta Cana is being rescheduled to take place at Hard Rock Hotel Cancun in 2020. New dates will be determined as soon as possible. We hope to have this announcement within the next two weeks.
As you can imagine, organizing this type of event requires extensive planning and logistics. Unfortunately, we are unable to move the trip to the new location during the November 7-11, 2019 period.
We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Once the new dates are formally announced, any guest who wishes to cancel will have an option for a full refund through Rose Tours.
While this decision has not been easy, the safety and well-being of our amazing fans, band and crew will always be the most important consideration in any situation. Sending our love and best wishes to all of our friends in the Dominican Republic.
Thank you for your patience while we work out the new details.
Look forward to seeing you soon in Mexico!
Rick
Although I hadn’t planned on going to Punta Cana and sympathize with those who rearranged their schedules, purchased tickets, etc., I’m relieved because the recent news from the Dominican Republic is worrisome. Is there something sinister happening there or is the media sensationalizing it? I don’t know, but the multiple deaths of American tourists reported does seem to require an investigation and hopefully the families of the victims will get some answers.
As the statement mentioned, the new dates will be announced soon and with the trip relocating a little closer to my part of the world, there’s also renewed hope that I can go…
My Rick Springfield crush 