Columbus patrol officers were spotted walking around and staged at the Springer Opera House on Friday afternoon after controversy began over the cancellation of a political comedy show.
Keith and Kevin Hodge, known through social media as the Hodgetwins, were scheduled to host fans at the Springer Opera House tonight at 8P.M. but last night plans changed when the top Springer officials sent an email to Mad Hatter Shows saying, “Because of the content of the show, we need to cancel the appearance tomorrow at the Springer. In
the Columbus Community the Springer represents a safe place for all. We have a lot of LGBTQ supporters on our staff and on our board. They feel that the content of the show that you are presenting does not represent that. Please call me so we can discuss what needs to happen.”
Hodgetwins biography on Youtube claims they are famously known for their comedic commentary regarding politics, current events, fitness tips, and relationship advice across their several YouTube channels.
Springer Opera House released a statement shortly after the controversy began stating:
“The Springer Opera House has made the difficult decision not to host the Hodgetwins comedy show scheduled for Saturday, July 9. Unfortunately, the comedy duo’s official representation, Mad Hatter Shows, have not fulfilled its responsibilities under the rental contract. Mad Hatter Shows never paid the required deposit to secure the date nor did they pay the full balance two weeks in advance of the event as stipulated in the contract. In addition, Mad Hatter’s technical representatives did not respond to the Springer’s repeated requests for information on the technical requirements for the show, making it impossible to hire a support crew. It is true that the Hodgetwins’ frequent targeting of LGBTQ persons in their comedy routines does not reflect the values and mission of the Springer Opera House. But the duo’s positions on public policy are not a factor in this decision. The Springer has been a forum for a broad range of speech, ideas and community dialogue for over 150 years and we continue to welcome candidates, debates and other gatherings by policy makers from all political stripes. This was a rental event and not a Springer production. Also, the Springer is not the ticket agent on the event so ticket-buyers are encouraged to contact Mad Hatter Shows regarding any rescheduling or refund policies.” The Springer took down their page hours after the statement was released.
Etix sent an email to all customers who paid nearly $70 dollars each for a ticket that they were trying to find another venue to host the show. “For our part, we’re trying to scramble to find a new venue nearby in the near future, but it is impossible to move a show within a matter of hours. This is financially damaging to the artists tonight and to us as promoters and we recognize that it’s also going to negatively affect those who traveled, bought tickets, have spent money on planes, hotels, gas for their vehicles, etc.,” the email added.
The reason for the police presence is unknown at this time.
