Upcoming Performance Amid Controversy
Ben Bankas is scheduled to perform at the Key City Theatre in Cranbrook on March 20, 2026. This event comes on the heels of significant community backlash and a recent cancellation of a performance at the Port Theatre, originally set for March 21, 2026.
The Port Theatre Society announced the cancellation due to concerns over Bankas’s past comments, which have been criticized for targeting Indigenous peoples and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The society emphasized its duty to provide a safe environment for all attendees, staff, and artists, as stated in the British Columbia Human Rights Code.
In contrast, the Key City Theatre has opted to proceed with the event, citing a signed rental contract with Bankas. Despite the backlash, tickets for the show have mostly sold out, indicating a divided public opinion on the matter.
Organizations such as the Fernie Pride Society have condemned Bankas’s material, describing it as “hateful rhetoric.” Meanwhile, the ʔaq̓am Chief and Council have formally requested the cancellation of the Key City Theatre event, arguing that public cultural venues have responsibilities that extend beyond contractual agreements.
Key City Theatre has stated that while it will host the event, it does not endorse the content of Bankas’s performance. The theatre has also implemented new policies aimed at declining future rental events that conflict with its mission and values.
As the date of the performance approaches, tensions remain high within the community. The contrasting decisions of the two theatres highlight the ongoing debate surrounding freedom of expression in the arts and the responsibilities of cultural institutions.
Bankas’s history of controversial remarks has drawn significant attention and criticism, raising questions about the impact of such performances on marginalized communities. The situation underscores the complexities of hosting events that may provoke strong reactions from various segments of the population.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the Key City Theatre event, but the discussions surrounding Bankas’s performance continue to resonate within the community.
