Breakneck Comedy issued its statement after the comedian announced the cancellation of the rest of the tour amid a dispute over payment.
As previously reported by the Glasgow Times, comedian Karen Dunbar announced the cancellation of her remaining Scottish tour dates, alleging she had only been paid for a small number of shows. Read more here.
While Karen Dunbar was not named in Breakneck Comedy’s statement, some social media users have speculated that the response relates to the dispute surrounding her cancelled tour dates. The company did not identify the performer involved, and has not publicly confirmed who the statement refers to.
In a statement shared on social media, Breakneck Comedy said it was “disappointed” to learn through social media that one of its main comedians had announced the cancellations.
The company said it had not been contacted directly before a video announcing the decision was published.
It strongly disputed allegations regarding non-payment.
Breakneck Comedy said: “We strongly dispute the claims made about non payment, including the statement that the comedian has only been paid for five shows.”
Breakneck Comedy said: “Our position is that these claims are inaccurate, and we are seeking legal advice on this matter.”
Rising costs, increased venue hire charges and lower-than-expected ticket sales had created financial pressure across the tour.
The company said it had approached the comedian to discuss renegotiating the agreement.
Breakneck Comedy said: “As a small business, we simply cannot afford to take on all the work and costs of organising a 60 show tour only to sustain a significant loss overall.”
Breakneck Comedy said: “Given the low sales across the tour, we asked the comedian to help us reach a fair, workable agreement that would allow the remaining dates to go ahead and to minimise our losses.”
It said a proposal to align fees with ticket sales was declined before the matter went to a solicitor.
The organisation plans revenue-sharing agreements instead of fixed guaranteed fees for future tours.
It apologised to customers, venues and staff affected and confirmed refunds would be issued.
Breakneck Comedy said: “We will provide a further update and full refunds for those affected.”
Breakneck Comedy said: “Thank you to our audiences, venues and staff for their patience and continued support.”
Social media users continued debating claims from both sides.
The comedian had claimed agreed payments were not received, while Breakneck Comedy denied the allegation.
The company said legal advice was being sought and confirmed refunds would be issued.
