Comedy show scrapped after outrage over Robert Pickton T-shirt
NEW WESTMINSTER — The House of Comedy in New Westminster has cancelled a performance by a controversial comedy group in response to public concerns.
The Danger Cats’ Spite Tour was scheduled for Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy BC on March 24. Their appearance at the comedy club sparked outrage among some community members, who were troubled by the group’s merchandise, a T-shirt featuring serial killer Robert Pickton, and some of the show’s content.
“In light of recent concerns surrounding our scheduled show, Danger Cats, we have made the decision to cancel the event,” said a statement by the House of Comedy BC. “The well-being of our staff, performers and patrons is our top priority.”
The statement was posted to social media, but soon removed.
In its statement, the House of Comedy said it values and supports the freedom of expression in comedy, but recognizes that the material for this show has caused discomfort in the community.
“This was not our intent,” said the post. “Our goal has always been to provide a safe space for our guests to experience a brief escape and enjoy a night of laughs. We clearly missed the mark, and aim to do better.”
The group’s scheduled appearance in New Westminster resulted in calls and messages to the comedy club and calls to New Westminster City Hall.
On Monday, New Westminster resident Briana Harris launched an online petition: Cancel Danger Cats’ Show at House of Comedy in New Westminster.
In just over 24 hours, more than 1,600 people signed the petition on change.org, among them a family member of one of the women killed at the Pickton farm, who stated there is nothing funny about the murders.
The public outcry followed last week’s news that Robert Pickton is now eligible to apply for day parole.
The Danger Cats posted a statement on social media saying they had received death threats.
The group said it was removing the March 24 show in New Westminster, as well as shows scheduled in several Canadian cities in March, April and May.
“The Pickton T-shirt has been removed from our website, and all proceeds will go to Ukraine,” the statement said.
“Unfortunately, our opposition has decided to resort to arson, vandalism and threats of bodily harm, so that time is not now. Cancelling the shows doesn’t solve anything but at least it keeps the innocent staff and venues safe. We all live to joke another day.”