Comedy in the Vines proves festivals can be more than one-trick ponies when it comes to the Yarra Valley this October.
The boutique festival, running from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October at CherryHill Orchards in Coldstream, has assembled a lineup that goes far beyond stand-up comedy.
While Comedy in the Vines delivers on its comedy promise with over 20 performers including UK exclusive Michelle De Swarte and Australian favourites Tommy Little and Sammy J, it’s the festival’s commitment to creating a complete entertainment experience – replete with a killer opening night party led by Hot Dub Time Machine – that sets it apart from the pack.
Comedy in the Vines 2025
- Where: CherryHill Orchards, Coldstream, Yarra Valley, Victoria
- When: Friday 24 to Sunday 26 October 2025
- Tickets: Available through Comedy in the Vines website
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Music that matches the comedy quality
- Hot Dub Time Machine
- Reuben Kaye with full band
- DJ Pedro Moshman
- The Piano Bar with Trevor Jones
The music programming demonstrates serious ambition, headlined by Hot Dub Time Machine on Friday night. The DJ phenomenon has built a reputation for creating what he calls “the best party ever” by weaving together the happiest moments from clubbing history with contemporary energy. His ability to transport audiences through musical time travel makes him an inspired choice for opening night festivities.
Saturday night closes with cabaret sensation Reuben Kaye bringing his full band to the Yarra Valley. Kaye, who has earned Best Show nominations at both Melbourne and Edinburgh Comedy Festivals alongside numerous cabaret awards, represents the festival’s commitment to blending performance styles. With a band behind him and a microphone in hand, Kaye promises to deliver something uniquely theatrical for the wine country setting.
The musical offerings continue throughout the weekend with DJ Pedro Moshman providing dancefloor moments and Trevor Jones manning the piano bar. Jones operates as a one-man jukebox, capable of playing virtually any request while encouraging audience participation and sing-alongs.
International stars meet local favourites
- Michelle De Swarte (UK) – AUS Exclusive
- Tommy Little
- Sammy J
- Anisa Nanduala
- Nazeem Hussain
- Merrick Watts
- Peter Helliar
- Takashi Wakasugi (JPN)
- Zoë Coombs Marr
- Nath Valvo
- Ray O’Leary (NZ)
- Ivan Aristeguieta (VNZ)
- Bronwyn Kuss
- Emma Holland
- Abby Howells (NZ)
- Dane Simpson
- Noah Szto
Of course, Comedy in the Vines doesn’t skimp on its titular responsibilities, showcasing top-drawer international comedy talent alongside the creme-de-la-creme of local stars. Michelle De Swarte arrives as an Australian exclusive, bringing her trajectory from Milan runways to Live at the Apollo success. The former model turned comedian has taken the UK by storm with her BBC/SBS series Spent and is currently in the middle of a sold-out tour culminating in two shows at London’s Hackney Empire.
From Japan comes Takashi Wakasugi, whose appearances on Taskmaster and Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mon Spelling Bee have built him a devoted Australian following. New Zealand contributes Ray O’Leary, known for his deadpan delivery and iconic grey suit across shows like Have You Been Paying Attention and Thank God You’re Here, plus multi-award-winning performer Abby Howells. Venezuela’s Ivan Aristeguieta rounds out the international contingent after charming his way to the top of Australian comedy during his decade-long tour.
Wine experiences that go beyond the glass
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The festival’s wine programming further elevates it beyond typical comedy events, creating a bonafide triple threat. The Meet Your Maker activation sees different Yarra Valley winemakers take over the bar each hour, bringing exclusive wines unavailable elsewhere. This creates genuine discovery opportunities for wine enthusiasts while supporting local producers.
Mac Forbes teams up with festival host Merrick Watts for a wine masterclass that promises to deviate from standard tastings. Forbes represents the cream of Yarra Valley winemaking, making this collaboration a cornerstone event for wine lovers.
The weekend includes quirky wine-focused activities like Mez’s Mini Wine Marathon, a 5km Sunday morning run with wine tastings every 1000 metres. The Oyster & Riesling Shot Bar returns after selling out within two hours last year, combining fresh oysters with chilled riesling and chilli garnish.
Location plays a crucial role in the festival’s appeal. The Yarra Valley setting provides a sophisticated backdrop just an hour from Melbourne, with CherryHill Orchards offering an intimate venue surrounded by some of Australia’s finest wine country. The region’s cool climate and diverse terroir have established it as a premier wine destination, with family-owned estates and boutique wineries creating an authentic wine experience.
Special events and special accommodation
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Special events add theatrical flair throughout the weekend. In Vino Veritas pairs comedy royalty Judith Lucy with Merrick Watts for an intimate conversation over wine, including audience questions. Bingo with Tina Del Twist combines trivia with red wine and theatrical hosting that defies conventional description.
The festival’s accommodation partnerships across the Yarra Valley extend the experience beyond the festival grounds. Options range from luxury suites at Chateau Yering to glamping at various locations, all offering special rates and perks for festival attendees. This encourages weekend-long stays that support the broader region while giving attendees time to explore the area’s attractions.
The festival’s programming across three days allows for different experiences and energy levels. Friday night focuses on music and opening festivities, Saturday delivers the biggest comedy lineup, and Sunday offers a more relaxed pace with special events and activities. In other words, it’s pretty much perfect.
For more information, head here.
This article was made in partnership with Comedy in the Vines
