YELLOW SPRINGS, Ohio (WDTN) – A zoning request for two dozen Dave Chappelle shows to be held in Greene County this summer was approved.
The Board of Zoning Appeals of Miami Township held a public hearing on Thursday, April 28 at 7 p.m. to decide whether to approve or deny Steve Wirrig’s, owner of the Wirrig Pavilion, variance request to host Chappelle’s performances at the Wirrig Pavilion.
The unanimous decision that the shows will go on was made after nearly two and a half hours of testimony, plus an additional hour with the board members.
“I’m surprised, ecstatic, really proud of our township,” said Wirrig. “I’ve left each one of these hearings completely inspired, tonight was no different. Thank you to the BZA for listening to us.”
Comedian Dave Chappelle will host the 24 events this summer as part of his “Cornfield Shows,” that he held in Yellow Springs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The topics discussed regarding the shows were how much they affected peoples’ mental health during the pandemic and how much they impact the lives of small business owners.
Wirrig presented a full economic impact of last year’s 400-person shows. He says in total, the Summer Cornfield shows brought in $11.8 million to the state of Ohio, $9.4 million to the Dayton region, $6.2 million to Greene County and Yellow Springs saw a bump of $4.1 million.
Now, the Summer Cornfield Shows will allow 1,000 patrons each night for shows starting between May 26 and Sept. 5, 2022. Wirrig says he barely profited off last year’s shows, stating he only earned $1,709.
Between in-person testimony and written testimony, the board heard only three residents against the shows and over 70 in favor.
The first show is set to start May 26. Wirrig said the planning will begin now.
