Shows by Israeli Comedian Canceled After Boycott Calls

Two performances by Israeli comedian Yohay Sponder at Amsterdam’s Boom Chicago comedy club have been canceled following a boycott call on social media. Sponder was scheduled to perform on January 25, but after significant backlash, the club decided to cancel the shows last Friday.

Several Instagram pages urged a boycott of Boom Chicago, encouraging followers to email the club regarding the performance by the “ultrazionist.” According to account managers, Sponder “glorifies genocide in Gaza” and “jokes based on Israeli propaganda.” Due to the volume of responses, the club stated it had no choice but to cancel the performance. “Given the climate in Amsterdam, responses, and police concerns, we can no longer allow Yohay Sponder’s performances on January 25,” Boom Chicago director Andrew Moskos reportedly emailed the comedian’s manager, according to Het Parool.

Moskos suggested assisting in finding an alternative venue for Sponder’s show. The comedian’s team disagrees with Boom Chicago’s decision.

“Freedom of expression matters. It means nothing if you back down when things get tough,” said Sponder’s manager and spouse, Kayla Sponder.

She noted there had been ongoing tensions surrounding the performance, with the team discussing security concerns with Boom Chicago multiple times. “We wanted to take responsibility and offered to pay for additional security, expecting a demonstration or similar event.

The performance was set to proceed until we were informed of its cancellation on Friday.” The manager acknowledges the club owner is in a difficult position. “I believe he’s not against us, but now he’s let the bullies win.” An Amsterdam police spokesperson told Het Parool the shows were not known to police.

The PVV party announced it would raise parliamentary questions about the canceled performances.

Source: NOS

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