WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (AP) – A planned performance by hip hop star Ludacris has been canceled by the Eastern States Exposition.

Officials with the Big E in West Springfield cite poor ticket sales for the decision to scratch the appearance, which was scheduled for Sept. 30.

Big E president Wayne McCary said fewer than 700 tickets had been sold for an arena that holds 6,100 people.

Local officials had said the rapper had to keep his act family friendly.

The West Springfield licensing commission had ordered that all concert-goers be screened by a hand-held metal detector and that no beer be served in the arena.

Refunds will be issued to those who already bought tickets.