The NZ International Comedy Festival regretfully announce the cancellation of their upcoming shows—scheduled to take place across NZ venues from April 30 to May 24—in accordance to the Government's directive regarding the developing COVID-19 situtation.
Their official statement reads like this:
"With deepest regret, we advise the cancellation of the 2020 NZ International Comedy Festival owing to the critical developments of the COVID-19 situation, and the Government's guidelines around events and mass gatherings over the coming months.
We are devastated but we have no doubt that this is the right decision. These are exceptional circumstances and we need to do what we can to eliminate the risk of spreading the virus in Aotearoa.
We are incredibly proud of the 2020 festival programme and are heartbroken to not see it come to life on stage at this time.
We understand this is a difficult time for performers, festival staff, producers, promoters, technicians, venues, and the many others who have worked over the last year to put together an outstanding programme. They are exceptional humans.
We also want to acknowledge our incredible sponsors, funders, and suppliers, whose support enables us to deliver this world-class festival. We also feel for our local business community who will be impacted by this cancellation.
We are deeply concerned about artist and industry welfare. We will be looking at ways that we can collectively work to keep our industry afloat and combat some of the challenges that this unprecedented situation has created.
For existing ticket-holders, the relevant ticketing agencies will be in touch regarding refunds. For those who are able, we invite you to donate the cost of your ticket to help support our comedy community.
Thank you for your ongoing support and understanding as our team works through the unfolding situation. To our loyal and passionate audiences, we’ll be ready to share a laugh with you, when the time is right." - NZ International Comedy Festival Team
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