Excitement at the Riyadh Comedy Festival
The Riyadh Comedy Festival is creating quite a buzz in Boulevard City, the vast 220-acre retail and entertainment area in the Saudi capital that features a replica of Times Square and boasts “500 electronic games for kids.” Since our last update, several new performers have joined the lineup, including Wayne Brady, which has left this long-time fan feeling mixed.
Comedians’ Experiences
How are the comedians finding the atmosphere? Based on Kevin Hart’s posts on the festival’s official social media, he seems to be having a fantastic time. In contrast, Dave Chappelle has expressed his appreciation for the expressive freedom he feels in Saudi Arabia, noting, “It’s easier to talk here than it is in America,” during a performance attended by 6,000 fans.
Atsuko Okatsuka’s Refusal
Last week, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka made headlines when she declined an offer to perform, stating that “the money is coming straight from the Crown Prince, who actively executes journalists, people with non-lethal drug offenses, bloggers, etc., without due process.” She also shared a screenshot of her offer that included strict limitations on comedians’ material, prohibiting any jokes about Saudi Arabia or its religions.
Burr’s Stand-Up Experience
Bill Burr, who is known for critiquing the reactions of his older peers, still accepted his spot at the festival, providing detailed insights into his experience. After visiting Saudi Arabia, he enthusiastically shared on his podcast how enjoyable it was, challenging his preconceptions about the country.
A Positive Atmosphere
Burr relished the audience’s energy, stating, “You could feel it. They wanted you to push, right? It was really exciting.” He recounted a moment when he pushed boundaries with a joke that landed exceptionally well, showcasing a positive reception from the local audience.
Mixed Reactions Among Comedians
Amid the increased scrutiny of the festival, some comedians like Nimesh Patel opted out, expressing grievances about financial aspects of his decision. In a TikTok video, he voiced his frustrations, only to later delete it and attempt to clarify his stance. Meanwhile, comedians like Hart, Chappelle, Jeff Ross, and Gabriel Iglesias opted to proceed with their performances, leaving their marks on a “Wall of Fame.”
Conclusion
It seems that men will choose to headline the Riyadh Comedy Festival over seeking therapy, as evidenced by their energetic performances. Check out Dave’s camaraderie with the audience, a testament to the unfolding vibrant comedy scene in Saudi Arabia.
