Why Diana Hamilton was charged higher to host a show at the O2 Arena

Award-winning Ghanaian gospel musician Diana Hamilton has shed more light on her experience trying to book the iconic O2 Arena in the United Kingdom for a concert, revealing that her team was quoted a higher fee specifically because her event would not permit alcohol sales on the premises.

Hamilton had, earlier in 2026, alluded to the pricing disparity she encountered as a gospel artiste at the world-renowned venue, but in an interview with Bola Ray on Starr FM on April 30, 2026, she provided further details on what transpired.

"We inquired about the venue, the O2. My team went and spoke to the management of the venue. They were told that because we will not sell alcohol at the venue, that is why we were being charged higher.

"It was due to the fact that the event organisers also sell alcohol. So, us not allowing that, they have to make their money from somewhere," she explained.

Gospel artistes are charged double for not selling alcohol at O2 Arena - Diana Hamilton

The revelation points to a revenue model at the O2 Arena where alcohol sales form a significant part of the income generated from hosted events, meaning gospel and other faith-based shows, which typically prohibit such sales, are effectively penalised with steeper venue charges.

Asked how she felt upon receiving the news, Hamilton said the response from the venue caught her off guard.

"Surprised was the word. I was surprised that it was like that," she said.

The musician, however, confirmed that the setback did not derail her plans.

Her team identified an alternative venue and successfully held the event, she stated..

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