Home / Arts and Entertainment / Comedian's Kitchener Show Moved Amid Controversy
Comedian's Kitchener Show Moved Amid Controversy
12 Feb
Summary
- Comedian Ben Bankas's Kitchener shows were moved from city venue.
- His shows faced cancellation after controversial jokes about ICE.
- New venue is Elements Night Club, near the original location.

Comedian Ben Bankas, known for his controversial jokes, will not perform at the city-owned Conrad Centre for the Performing Arts in Kitchener as originally planned. His two scheduled shows on March 7 have been moved to Elements Night Club, located nearby.
Bankas faced significant backlash after making jokes about the situation in Minnesota, including comments about an ICE shooting. This led to the cancellation of six shows in Minnesota and criticism from some who felt hosting him in a city facility implicitly endorsed his views.
Bankas has defended his actions, suggesting cancellations were due to minor complaints and vowing to continue his comedic style. His Ontario tour also includes dates in Toronto, Sudbury, Thunder Bay, and Niagara Falls before proceeding to Alberta.

