British Citizens Welcome Israeli Performing Artists

A new poll conducted by YouGov for the Jewish Chronicle (of Britain) showed that a clear majority of British citizens did not agree with a cultural boycott of Israel. The poll highlighted the fact that less than one out of five people objected to Israeli cultural productions being presented in the United Kingdom. Even more, three quarters of the population had no issue with British counterparts performing in Israel.

The poll was conducted in the wake of a rash of several public outbursts against Israeli cultural presentations across the United Kingdom. Disruptions were seen at several performances including those of the Habima theatre company when they performed at the Globe, the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and protests at the appearance of Batcheva contemporary dance group when they appeared at the Edinburgh International Festival.

The statistics gleaned from the new poll contradicts British anti-Israel activists who have suggested that the majority of Britons would support a cultural boycott of Israel and consider Israel to be in the same pariah category as Apartheid South Africa Used to be.

Celebrities who continue to perform in Israel despite pressure include Sir Paul McCartney, Madonna and Rihanna.