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Chappelle comedy shows at Wirrig Pavilion could continue into next year if township approves

MIAMI TWP., Greene County — The owner of Wirrig Pavilion has asked the township to extend and modify a temporary use approval that allowed Dave Chappelle to hold ticketed comedy shows at the property near Yellow Springs.

Chappelle held multiple socially distant comedy shows with several high-profile comedians throughout the summer including Chris Rock, Kevin Hart and others.

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According to the application, Steve Wirrig, is asking the board of zoning appeals to extend the zoning change until Aug. 6, 2021, which would allow for shows to continue at the venue off U.S. 68.

“The state’s imposed conditions surrounding Reopen Ohio as related to performance venues are unrealistically restrictive to the point that traditional performance venues, comedy clubs, theaters, and similar operations have consistently and repeatedly declared it is not financially feasible, nor otherwise realistic to reopen under the state’s guidelines,” Wirrig said. “As such, performing artists, such as Mr. Chappelle continue to need alternative venues for their artistic expression, including providing community engagement and enjoyment.”

The previous approval expired earlier this month.

Wirrig also is asking for the extension to be modified to allow for 18 shows per month to account for inclement weather, an overall increase of two shows. Shows would not be held on Sundays.

If approved, the zoning change would be in place until August 2021 or until the state allows a full reopening of the state’s performance venues.

The township’s Board of Zoning Appeals is scheduled to hold a public hearing on the request on Nov. 5 at 7 p.m. virtually. Anyone requesting additional information on the meeting can contact zoning inspector Richard Zopf at 937-767-9222.

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