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Riyadh Comedy Festival

All articles tagged with #riyadh comedy festival

world3 months ago

Controversy Sparks Debate Over Saudi Arabia's Comedy Festivals

Human Rights Watch declined to accept donations from comedians, including Aziz Ansari, who performed at the Riyadh Comedy Festival, criticizing the festival's association with Saudi Arabia's human rights record. The organization emphasized its independence and called on performers to advocate for the release of detained Saudi activists, while many comedians defended their participation as a way to promote dialogue.

entertainment3 months ago

Aziz Ansari and Louis C.K. Address Controversy Over Saudi Arabian Comedy Festivals

Aziz Ansari defended his participation in the Riyadh Comedy Festival during an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, emphasizing that the festival promotes dialogue and change in Saudi Arabia, despite controversy over the country's human rights record. He highlighted the importance of engagement over isolation and expressed hope that such events can foster positive change.

entertainment3 months ago

Controversy Surrounds U.S. Comedians' Performances at Saudi Arabia Festival

Louis CK defended his decision to perform at the Riyadh comedy festival, viewing it as a positive opportunity for comedy to open up in Saudi Arabia despite criticism over human rights concerns and the festival's ties to the Saudi government. Some comedians expressed mixed feelings, with others like Jessica Kirson and Bill Burr highlighting the potential for positive change and visibility, while critics argue it whitewashes human rights abuses.

world3 months ago

Comedians' Divided Views on Performing at Riyadh Comedy Festival

Louis C.K. defends his participation in the Riyadh Comedy Festival, viewing it as a positive opportunity to engage with a developing comedy scene in Saudi Arabia, despite criticism from other comedians who question the morals of performing in the country. He highlights the surprising openness of the audience and the potential for dialogue, while others like David Cross criticize the decision as hypocritical given the country's restrictions.