Iconic music venue First Avenue caved to backlash on Thursday, canceling comedian Dave Chappelle‘s show hours before his performance was slated to start.
The venue, located in Minnesota, has reportedly been receiving backlash for planning to host Chappelle. The comedian leans Left, but has refused to play the politically correct game with his material, specifically when it comes to radical gender theory.
“We hear you,” First Avenue posted via social media on Thursday evening. “The Dave Chappelle show tonight at First Avenue has been canceled and is moving to the Varsity Theater,” the statement said, adding apologies to staffers.
“We know we must hold ourselves to the highest standards, and we know we let you down,” the venue continued. “We are not just a black box with people in it, and we understand that First Ave is not just a room, but meaningful beyond our walls.”
“The First Avenue team and you have worked hard to make our venues the safest spaces in the country, and we will continue with that mission,” the statement said.
“We believe in diverse voices and the freedom of artistic expression, but in honoring that, we lost sight of the impact this would have,” the theater added. “We know there are some who will not agree with this decision; you are welcome to send feedback.”
We hear you. Tonight’s show has been cancelled at First Avenue and is moving to the Varsity Theater. See our full statement for more. pic.twitter.com/tkf7rz0cc7
— First Avenue (@FirstAvenue) July 20, 2022