Turner Sparks

Turner Sparks, a stand-up comedian known for his sharp wit, and Michael Ira Kaplan, a seasoned comic and real estate expert, dive into the ethical dilemmas surrounding performances in authoritarian regimes. They tackle the Riyadh Comedy Festival controversy, debating whether comedy can promote liberal ideas despite heavy restrictions. Sparks argues against accepting gigs that may endorse oppressive governments, while Kaplan explores the role of personal ethics and the challenges comedians face when tailoring their sets under censorship.