TORONTO - A major music festival says it is steering clear of a downtown Toronto venue whose owner has been charged with sexual assault.

Organizers for Canadian Music Week say they've rescheduled bands tentatively booked at the Smiling Buddha after learning of the case.

Festival manager Dave Henry says the festival is "dedicated to providing a welcoming and safe environment."

He said they learned of the allegation recently and "immediately pulled all shows at the venue." Three CMW showcases had been earmarked for the venue, involving about nine bands.

A staff member with the Toronto promoter Collective Concerts said they were also rescheduling shows at the venue but did not elaborate.

Toronto police charged Lucan Wai with one count of sexual assault on Feb. 15. Wai said he is "looking forward" to clearing his name.