The war in Iraq has influenced all aspects of life on campus. The reserves have been called up, regular television broadcasts have given way to live feeds from the warfront, and peace protests and war vigils abound.

The war has also deprived Penn State of a world-renowned vocalist.

Youssou N'Dour was scheduled to perform a concert at 7:30 p.m. on April 15 in Eisenhower Auditorium. Slated to be his biggest North American tour, his 38-city tour was canceled because of events leading up to the war in Iraq. About two weeks prior to the first gig, N'Dour released a statement that said, "I believe that coming to America at this time would be perceived in many parts of the world -- rightly or wrongly -- as a support of this policy, and that, as a consequence, it is inappropriate to perform in the U.S. at this juncture."

Thomas Rome, N'Dour's manager, said it was a difficult decision.

"It was agonizing," Rome said. "But he tried to make a principle decision."

N'Dour canceled his tour early to make it clear that he was protesting America's stance.

"He had to voice his opposition to unilateral military action," Rome said. "He made his decision as early as possible to save promoters."

N'Dour is on an indefinite hiatus from performing. "He is at home, watching the television with the rest of the world, trying to make sense of it all," Rome said.

Susan Stockton, director of the Center for the Performing Arts, said that N'Dour canceled early "at great cost to him."

"Because he pulled out before the war, some people are seeking restitution for damages," she said.

According to N'Dour's North American representative, the International Music Network (IMN), N'Dour plans to return the states in September. The IMN, whose star-studded roster includes Norah Jones, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Wayne Shorter and Dianne Reeves, said N'Dour is the only one of its international artists to cancel so far.

N'Dour is an international star. Born in Senegal but currently residing in France, this Grammy-nominated artist has a voice covering four to five octaves. His contemporary take on Senegalese mbalax percussive dance music has earned him international acclaim. The world at large was introduced to N'Dour in 1998, when he wrote and performed the anthem for the FIFA World Cup in France.

Laura Sullivan, Eisenhower marketing and communications director, said ticket sales for this show had been close to projections. Because of the short notice, the Center for the Performing Arts will not replace this concert. Instead, it is giving full refunds.

Sullivan said this is not a common occurrence, but it has happened with international artists before. After Sept. 11, the Prague Symphony Orchestra and National Ballet of China canceled their dates at Penn State.

However, this will not deter future international shows from being scheduled, she said.

"We are more nervous about booking international artists now, but we still have several international artists booked for next season," Stockton said.