Poet says Gaiety's Katie Hopkins booking is 'not appropriate'

Bradley Chambers believes the show goes against the venue's values

A prominent poet on the Island says he doesn't think it's appropriate for the Gaiety Theatre to host a show by performer Katie Hopkins later this week.

Bradley Chambers, who is the current Manx Bard, believes Ms Hopkins' views go against the VillaGaiety's stated values.

The former reality TV contestant and comedian, who will perform her 'Free Range' show at the venue on Thursday, has attracted controversy due to her views on topics such as immigration and race.

She's previously performed twice on the Island at the Manx Legion, but this will be her first performance at the taxpayer-funded theatre.

Mr Chambers told Phil Gawne about his concerns:

In a statement, the Department of Education, Sport and Culture said: "The Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre operate as public venues. The associated hire arrangements permit individuals, promoters and organisations to book the facilities, subject to suitable availability and provided that the venue’s terms and conditions, including any applicable legal obligations and health and safety requirements, can be met to the satisfaction of the Department.

"The Department considered a request to hire the Gaiety Theatre for a stand-up comedy performance by Katie Hopkins to take place in July 2026. 

"Decisions relating to venue bookings are made in accordance with the relevant booking procedures and with due regard to legal, operational and health and safety considerations.

"The decision to proceed with the booking was made neither by the Isle of Man Arts Council nor directly by the VillaGaiety team.

"The Department does not endorse, promote or otherwise adopt the views or opinions of any individual, promoter, performer, organisation or group hiring its venues. 

"The use of a Department-operated venue should not be construed as indicating support for, or agreement with, the views expressed by those associated with an event. 

"As public venues, the Villa Marina and Gaiety Theatre may host a range of events and perspectives, and applications for hire must be considered fairly, consistently and in accordance with the relevant booking procedures, legal and operational requirements."

Manx Radio has also contact Ms Hopkins' tour for comment.