Kitchener nightclub cancels controversial comedy show
Posted Mar 9, 2026 05:36:11 PM.
Last Updated Mar 10, 2026 10:21:30 AM.
Controversial comedian Ben Bankas had his show at Elements Nightclub in downtown Kitchener cancelled.
The show, which was scheduled for Saturday and sold out according to Bankas’ social media, was cancelled by the nightclub, according to his public relations team.
“Ben Bankas has performed in the Kitchener-Waterloo area for the past seven years, and he is disappointed that he won’t be back performing for the thousands of fans there,” said Deborah Knight, president of DKPR Public Relations Inc.
The show had been scheduled to take place at Kitchener’s Conrad Centre for Performing Arts, but was moved to the privately-owned establishment after pushback from the community.
Bankas’ comedy has received plenty of attention in recent months due to its subject matter. His past shows have featured commentary on issues involving residential schools, immigration, diversity, and recent events happening in Iran.
“These cancellations are inconsequential to Ben as he is performing in hundreds of other locations,” said Knight in a message to 570 NewsRadio. “These cancellations will make his next appearance in the area even bigger.”
Bankas has self-described his brand of comedy as “unfiltered,” adding, “I make jokes that I would tell my best friend. It’s what I find funny. I’m not causing the awful things in the world — I just talk about them.”
The “I Said What I Said” tour has also had a cancellation in Nanaimo, B.C., at a city-owned location, with the venue alleging that hosting the show would be in violation of B.C.’s Human Rights Code.
“We will plan to book another show in the near future, so stay tuned for more information,” added Knight.
570 NewsRadio has reached out to Elements Nightclub for comment but have yet to receive a response.
