In a controversial move, two Jewish comedians, Rachel Creeger and Philip Simon, had their performances cancelled at the Whistlebinkies venue during the 2025 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
The venue cited safety concerns raised by bar staff as the reason for the cancellations, leading to widespread debate about free speech, antisemitism, and the role of identity in the arts.
Why Two Jewish Comedians Banned from Performing at the Edinburgh Fringe?
The Cancellations
Rachel Creeger, an Orthodox Jewish comedian, was scheduled to perform her show Ultimate Jewish Mother at Whistlebinkies. Philip Simon, also Jewish, had planned to host a comedy event titled Jew-O-Rama at the same venue. Both comedians were informed that their shows were cancelled due to staff feeling “unsafe.”
The venue reportedly cited concerns over “rhetoric and symbology” linked to Israel, particularly following Simon’s attendance at a vigil marking 100 days since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. The venue later retracted the accusation but maintained the decision to cancel the performances.
Reactions from the Comedians
Both Creeger and Simon have publicly condemned the cancellations. Creeger expressed her disappointment, stating that her show was non-political and intended to share Jewish culture in a light-hearted manner.
She emphasized that the decision to cancel her performance was not based on the content of her act but on her identity as a Jewish performer.
Simon echoed these sentiments, asserting that his only expressed opinion on the Gaza conflict was a desire for peace and to avoid further violence. He criticized the venue’s decision as an act of discrimination against Jewish artists.
Venue’s Justification
The management of Whistlebinkies said the cancellations were due to staff safety concerns. They described the decision as a precautionary measure to ensure that everyone involved could feel safe during the events.
Public and Political Responses
The incident has sparked widespread debate. Some people and organizations have expressed support for the comedians, viewing the cancellations as an infringement on free speech and an example of rising antisemitism.
Others have sided with the venue, emphasizing the importance of safety and the challenges of navigating sensitive political issues in public performances. Notably, SNP leader John Swinney suggested that the venue was justified in its actions, given the safety concerns raised.
Broader Implications
This controversy highlights the complexities faced by artists in politically charged environments. While the Edinburgh Fringe has long been a platform for diverse voices, incidents like these raise questions about the balance between artistic freedom and the potential for audience backlash.
The challenge lies in ensuring that venues can provide a safe space for performers while also upholding the principles of free expression.
Looking Ahead
As the Edinburgh Festival Fringe has ended, the industry will likely continue to grapple with the implications of this incident. It serves as a reminder of the delicate interplay between politics, identity, and art. For artists like Rachel Creeger and Philip Simon, the path forward may involve seeking alternative platforms that support their right to perform without fear of discrimination.
About the Comedians
Rachel Creeger is a London-based, multi-award-winning stand-up comedian, writer, and director. She is the only practicing Orthodox Jewish woman on the mainstream UK comedy circuit.
Her show Ultimate Jewish Mother combines personal anecdotes with cultural insights, aiming to share Jewish life and humor in an accessible and entertaining way. Creeger has performed at various comedy festivals and venues across the UK and internationally, earning recognition for her unique voice and perspective.
Philip Simon is a seasoned comedian known for his sharp wit and engaging storytelling. He has appeared on BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and BBC Radio 4, and has written for shows like Mock the Week and Taskmaster.
Simon and Creeger also co-host the popular podcast Jew Talkin’ To Me?, where they discuss Jewish identity and culture with humor and insight. His show Jew-O-Rama features a rotating lineup of Jewish comedians, showcasing a range of comedic styles and perspectives.
Both Creeger and Simon have been vocal about the challenges faced by Jewish performers in the current cultural climate, advocating for greater inclusivity and understanding within the arts.
