Michael Jackson has resheduled the first four dates of his upcoming London residency due to the 'magnitude' of the preparations for the 'This Is It' concerts.

The concerts on July 8, 10, 12, 14 will now take place on later dates with all tickets remaining vaild.

In a statements about the postponements, promoters AEG said: "Due to the sheer magnitude of the 'This Is It' concerts at the O2 Arena promoters and producers AEG Live and Kenny Ortega, Michael’s directorial partner and creative collaborator have elected to move back a few of the opening shows in order to meet the challenges presented by such a massive and technically complex show.

"Organisers are determined that all Michael’s legions of fans attending the opening nights get the same quality of staging and level of entertainment."

They added: “Kenny and Michael are, at the same time, both creative pioneers and perfectionists. This show has grown in size and scope, thereby, necessitating more lead time for manufacture of the set, programming the content for the massive video elements, and, most importantly, more time for full production and dress rehearsals in the world’s busiest arena, the O2.

"As much as we agonized over this change in the original schedule, we are sure the fans will understand when they experience the level of entertainment Michael Jackson intends to deliver while also ensuring the safety of the musicians, cast and crew and the crisp execution of the production.

"It is AEG Live’s sincere hope that those lucky enough to have purchased tickets will have enough time to change their personal schedules and travel plans if they are coming from outside of London. We do not want anyone to miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

The new dates are:

• 8th July will take place on 13th July 2009
• 12th July will be moved to 3rd March 2010

(by Daniel Melia)