Sydney Festival encouraged to take a stand against artist boycott
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The Sydney Festival will not hand back sponsorship money from the Israeli embassy that led to a major artist boycott.
Israeli choreographer Ohad Naharin and Tel Aviv’s Batsheva Dance Company’s work is being funded by a $20,000 grant from the Embassy of Israel in Canberra.
Businessman David Kirk apologised to artists caught up in the controversy.
Australian Jewry Executive Council co-CEO Alex Ryvchn told Joe Hildebrand the apology sends a “dim and unfortunate message”.
“These activists will view this as something of a victory and they will look to do this again at future festivals.
“It’s important that people take a stand, tell them to get stuffed and allow this to go no further.”
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Image: Getty