Edinburgh venue admits Jewish comedian was barred for his faith
Banshee Labyrinth acknowledged that removing comedian Philip Simon from the Fringe was discriminatory because he is Jewish, a court heard.
At a hearing in Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Banshee Labyrinth conceded that its removal of Jewish comedian Philip Simon from the Fringe Festival was discriminatory on the basis of his faith. Simon had been set to present his solo show "Shall I Compere Thee In A Funny Way" when the venue cited his social-media remarks about Gaza, describing them as aligning with extremist symbolism. The comedian maintained he was barred solely for being Jewish and had only called for hostages' release and peace.
He filed a lawsuit alleging religious discrimination. Judge Roderick Flinn said a damages award will be decided at a future date. The venue did not respond to media inquiries at the time of reporting.
Why it matters
The case highlights how freedom of expression and anti-discrimination laws intersect in cultural events.
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