"My autistic daughter became so anxious when we were plunged into darkness": Mum recalls confusion after Sam Smith gig suddenly cancelled

A mum has told of the moment her autistic daughter became 'very anxious' when crowds were suddenly plunged into darkness at a Sam Smith concert on Wednesday night (May 24).

Thousands of fans were told to go home after the 'Unholy' singer cancelled their show at the AO Arena four songs into the set. There had initially been speculation of a 'power cut' at the arena as the lights dimmed for a number of minutes and Smith disappeared off stage.

However, the sold out crowds were then told the show had been cancelled due to 'vocal issues' - something the performer then confirmed on their Instagram story in an emotional public statement a short while later.

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Following the incident, which fans said left them 'gutted' and 'fuming', the singer explained that they had recently battled a virus and that there was 'something wrong' with their voice, adding they were 'heartbroken' at being unable to finish.

One mum, Allison Thomlinson, had been long anticipating the sold out gig, having bought Sam Smith tickets for her autistic daughter Sophie, 11, for Christmas. However, she said after four songs, crowds were 'plunged into darkness' as the singer ran off stage.

"As soon as Sam on and revealed the set, it was just amazing. Sophie was so excited and we thought wow, this is going to be such an amazing show," she said.

"With Sophie having a disability and being autistic, we go in specific areas without stairs. We had a brilliant view and everyone was just so elated. Sam looked to be tearful at the beginning as they announced the show would be dedicated to Tina Turner.

"They sang Too Good at Goodbyes and we were told there was going to be a surprise at the end. Everyone