US comedian claims Singapore show axed over censorship; authority cites late application
Sammy Obeid says his script was rejected despite multiple edits, but IMDA clarifies he sent the permit request only 10 days before the event
American comedian Sammy Obeid has accused Singaporean authorities of trying to censor his stand-up show after his performance scheduled for Sunday was cancelled, but officials say the permit was rejected because the application was lodged too late.
The agency, however, denied requesting any changes and said the application was submitted too close to the show date to be processed.
In Singapore, an arts entertainment licence is required for public performances, including theatre, dance, art exhibitions, literary readings and stand-up comedy. IMDA has the power to request alterations to scripts before they are approved.
Obeid, who is Lebanese-Palestinian American, said that he contacted IMDA directly on July 9, but the authority insisted he needed a representative for submission.
The comedian said he assigned a representative to hold further talks with IMDA. He declined to name the messenger, citing the risk of repercussions for her.