'Devastating' shutdown over coronavirus fears

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival has been cancelled.

The news comes after Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison urged  the cancellation of all non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Festival director Susan Provan announced the festival's cancellation in a statement, saying it was a ‘difficult decision’ made with ‘great sadness’.

She said:  ‘Our primary concern is the health and welfare of our artists and participants, staff and audiences. Cancelling the Festival is heartbreaking but the only decision possible to support the community's efforts to slow the spread of coronavirus.’

‘We’re devastated by the news, thank everyone for their understanding and support and look forward to sharing a laugh with you again soon.’

Hundreds of artists had been due to take part in the three-and-a-half week festival, due to kick off on March 25 and involving around 550 shows, most of which run for the full month. It is the biggest comedy festival outside of Edinburgh.

Comic Lehmo was one of many who commented on Twitter. He said: ‘Absolutely devastating news about the Melbourne International Comedy Festival being cancelled! It is the cornerstone of the stand up calendar. My heart goes out to every act and the audiences who are missing out on a much needed laugh!’

And Tom Ballard said: ‘This obviously suxxx but is clearly the right call. Folks who have bought tickets to my stand up show or live podcast will be refunded. Much love   to the #MICF family and comedy community who are very sad right now (even though we will do joke about it). We’re In This Together.’

This weekend’s Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne was cancelled this morning at the last minute.

Yesterday several comedy events were cancelled in Europe, including the Altitude festival in the Alps and Russell Howard's continental tour dates. Here is our guide to what's been pulled so far.

Published: 13 Mar 2020