A STAND-UP show by Katie Hopkins at Rugby’s Benn Hall has been cancelled over safety concerns.
The controversial political commentator had been set to take to the stage on Saturday (July 19) as part of her Batsh*t Bonkers Britain tour, billed as a comedy show.
But the planned appearance by the former Apprentice star, who has previously been accused of making homophobic, transphobic, racist, Islamaphobic and ableist comments, sparked anger from pro-LGBTQ+ and anti-racism groups who were planning to protest outside the venue.
That prompted Rugby Borough Council, which owns the venue, to pull the plug on the show following advice from Warwickshire Police.
An RBC spokesperson said: “The Benn Hall is primarily a family venue with many community events and activities from musical shows to antiques fairs. We want to support all our communities and their interests with safe, fun activities that everyone can enjoy.
“Since concerns about the Batsh*t Bonkers Britain tour booking were first raised with us, we have taken advice from a variety of partner organisations, including Warwickshire Police, about the context and safety implications of this performance.
“We are aware of a planned protest on the evening of the performance with significant numbers of individuals and organisations indicating their intention to attend.
“Because we are responsible for event safety and cannot guarantee the safety of ticket holders or protesters, we have cancelled the booking. Ticket holders should contact the promoter for information on refunds.
“We understand the depth of feeling this matter has invoked. We will review the Benn Hall booking policy and debate it at a forthcoming meeting of the council.”
Hopkins responded on social media saying RBC had not given her a chance to address concerns before cancelling the show for which 480 tickets had been sold.
The 50 year-old was defiant saying she refused to be “cancelled” and “the show must go on” – and called for other venues to take up the booking.
She told her followers: “We’ve not been given an opportunity to discuss this and try and resolve it.”
“We can provide security. Any protest we have we can make sure they’re well looked after on the other side of the road.”
