With the inaugural Riyadh Comedy Festival set to make its debut in Saudi Arabia, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka has highlighted the strict terms imposed on participants, which ultimately led to her decision to decline an invitation. Okatsuka shared on social media that the offer she received in July from the festival’s organizers, Sela Group, required her to comply with censorship rules dictating the type of jokes she could perform.
She detailed how the contract explicitly barred artists from making statements that could defame or criticize the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, its leadership, culture, religion, and more. The redacted offer promised a 60-75 minute set at a venue accommodating 600-900 people, along with hotel accommodations and local transportation, but left flight arrangements to the performer. Social media promotion of the performance was also expected.
Other comedians, including Leslie Liao and Mike Birbiglia, echoed Okatsuka’s sentiments, revealing they too declined offers citing similar concerns. Shane Gillis shared on his podcast that he refused a significant monetary offer, even after it was increased, standing firm on his principles.
The festival, which has drawn notable figures like Kevin Hart, Aziz Ansari, and Dave Chappelle, has sparked controversy. Critics highlight Saudi Arabia’s human rights issues, including its role in the 2018 assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and various abuses linked to the entertainment minister, Turki Al-Sheikh, who is connected to the festival.
Human Rights Watch researcher Joey Shea notes that such entertainment events are part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to alter global perceptions and divert attention from the country’s human rights violations. Despite the backlash from some comedians, the festival continues to expand, featuring a lineup of celebrities from the comedy world.