The best shows to see at Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 2024.
With well over 600 shows taking over 150 venues and the streets of Melbourne from 27 March to 21 April, this year the laughs will reach even more people across Melbourne and the suburbs. The Festival’s Neighbourhood Sessions program will return, taking a curated line-up of comedy stars to the ‘burbs for a fourth year, with shows in Essendon, Caroline Springs, Williamstown, Moorabbin and Werribee.
Melbourne International Comedy Festival
- From Wednesday 27 March – Sunday 21 April 2024
- Venues across Melbourne and Victoria
- Tickets and show info here
Explore Melbourne’s latest arts and stage news, features, festivals, interviews and reviews here.
The Most Outstanding Show Award nominees
Celia Pacquola, Kanan Gill and more lead Comedy Festival’s 2024 award nominees
- Celia Pacquola, I’m As Surprised As You Are
- John Kearns (UK), The Varnishing Days
- Julia Masli (Estonia), ha ha ha ha ha ha ha
- Kanan Gill (India), What Is This?
- Lou Wall, The Bisexual’s Lament
- Oliver Coleman, Goof
- Ray O’Leary (NZ), Your Laughter Is Just Making Me Stronger
- Rose Matafeo (NZ), On And On And On
- Sarah Keyworth (UK), My Eyes Are Up Here
- Takashi Wakasugi (Japan), Japanese Aussie
Best Newcomer nominations
Best Newcomer nominations for a solo performer or group of performers doing their first Festival show – are:
- Bridget Hassed, Girl Girl Girl
- Dylan Murphy & Molly Daniels, Are Dead
- Laurence Driscoll, The Prodigay Son
- Maddy Weeks, Never Gonna Die
- Noah Szto, Success In Everything
- Samuel Gebreselassie, I’m a Refugee… Get Me Out of Here!
Golden Gibbo nominees
The Golden Gibbo – in memory of the late, great Lynda Gibson – is aimed at finding a local, independent show that pursues the artists’ idea more than it pursues commercial gain.
- Matt Bell, Dead To Me: A Comedy Ghost Tour
- Dougie Baldwin, Detention
- Granny Bingo, Brave New World
- Alex Reynolds, Scrum
- Mel McGlensey, Is Motorboat
- Helena Ruse & Pippa Mills, In Conversation With Christ
The biggest Comedy Festival headliners
If fast-paced comedy vibes are your style, check out Larry Dean (UK), Nina Conti (UK), Fern Brady (UK), Chris Parker (NZ), Darren Harriott (UK), Olga Koch (GER, RUS, UK), Schalk Bezuidenhout (STH AFRICA), Shenoah Allen (USA), The Lucas Bros (USA) or Two Hearts (NZ).
If you’re after whimsy or storytelling – don’t miss the UK‘s best-loved comics Rob Auton, John Kearns, Sarah Keyworth or Ireland’s Catherine Bohart.
A special Asian Comedy Festival focus
The 2024 program features more International comedians than ever before, and while comics from the UK, US and New Zealand dominate the spread, there are a great number from India and Asia.
Indian film star, author and comic Kanan Gill, Edinburgh Best Newcomer 2023 winner Urooj Ashfaq (India), plus Anirban Dasgupta (India) and He Huang (China) are some of the biggest names, boasting millions of combined followers.
Chan Lok Tim (HK) and Vivek Mahbubani (HK) will do full shows in Cantonese, and for one night only an incredible line-up of the best comics will appear in Comedy Zone Asia Allstars featuring Daniel Fernandes (India), Jason Leong (Malaysia), Sam See (Singapore), Showko (Japan), Takashi Wakasugi (Japan) and more – hosted by Singapore’s Fakkah Fuzz.
New international comedians to see
Discover new international voices with Norwegian clown Viggo Venn; Latino satirist Martin Urbano; the mesmerising Julia Masli (Estonia); surreal and dark Lara Ricote (MEX); and Britain’s finest new comics Celya AB, Josh Jones and Dan Tiernan who together perform under the New Order banner.
The renowned Australian acts
Much loved Australian stalwarts will take centre stage once again – Anne Edmonds, Celia Pacquola, Claire Hooper, Damian Callinan, Dane Simpson, Daniel Connell, Danielle Walker, Dave Hughes, Dave O’Neil, Diana Nguyen, Dilruk Jayasinha, Emma Holland, Joel Creasey, Josh Earl, Kirsty Webeck, Lizzy Hoo, Luke Heggie, Mel Buttle, Merrick Watts, Nath Valvo, Nazeem Hussain, Nina Oyama, Sam Campbell, The Umbilical Brothers, Tom Ballard, Wil Anderson and many more.
Must-see emerging comedy stars
Comedy Zone: Comedy Festival’s hub for emerging talent is unleashing the next-gen this month
So many fresh new local voices and perspectives can be discovered in shows from Aurelia St Clair, Breast of the Fest, Bridget Hassed, Bron Lewis, Bronwyn Kuss, Con Coutis, Dahn Razario, Frankie McNair, Grace Zhang, Kimmie Lovegrove, Natalie Harris, Noah Szto and of course the Festivals own Comedy Zone – in its 24th year, the curated selection of Australia’s rising stars of comedy, will not disappoint.
The best cabaret and stage comedy shows
Cabaret and theatre lovers should dive in to Reuben Kaye, Christie Whelan Browne’s Brittany Spears the Musical, Groundhog Day, Jay Wymarra’s AmaJayus, Ali McGregor and her guests in Late-Nite Variety-Nite Night or join Andrew McClelland and Louisa Fitzhardinge forThe Von Donk Family Old-Timey Vaudeville Revue.
The best family-friendly comedy shows
If you want to take the whole family to the Comedy Festival, kids are well-catered for!
Weekends and the school holidays are peppered with performances by Circus Oz, Sean Choolburra, Mr Snotbottom, The Listies, The Scientwits, Trash Test Dummies, Basketball Man, and on Good Friday The (Very) Big Laugh Out will take over the Fed Square main stage for a huge day of free, family-friendly entertainment and a whole lot of laughs.
Comedy Festival’s big events
Omar Gad has been crowned the funniest new talent in the country at the RAW Comedy Grand Final
Big events are all back too – The Gala, proudly supporting Oxfam, Opening Night Comedy Allstars Supershow, The 34th Annual Great Debate, Upfront, Deadly Funny, Class Clowns and RAW Comedy National Grand Finals.
The Gala
Hosted by Aussie comedy legend Lizzy Hoo, the renowned festival Gala is a night of nothing but the brightest stars in comedy, all coming together to support Oxfam’s mission in tackling global poverty. The perfect combination of doing good and feeling good, the Gala is an event in the festival calendar not to be missed.
Palais Theatre St Kilda, 20 MARCH
Comedy Bites
Broadcasted live on the airwaves and hosted by ABC Radio Melbourne’s David Astle and Alice Zaslavsky, Comedy Bites will be featuring bite-sized chunks of some of the festival’s best local and international performers. A great way to try-before-you-buy this comedy festival season.
The Capitol, 26 MARCH
Opening Night Comedy Allstars Supershow
Comedy Festival: Lizzy Hoo to host The Gala, Guy Montgomery to host Allstars Supershow
To kick-start the funny festivities is a night of comedy legends and soon-to-be legendary comedians. With all the stars of comedy royalty all in one place, this Opening Night event is the perfect way to begin the festival.
Palais Theatre St Kilda, 27 MARCH
Class Clowns National Grand Final
The finalists for the National Class Clown competition are coming together from all over the country to prove that they have what it takes to be Australia’s funniest high schooler. These teenage comedians will also be joined by a special line-up of guest appearances of festival favourites.
Melbourne Town Hall Supper Room, 28 MARCH
The Festival Club
The first rule of Festival Club is please talk about Festival Club. This is an event it’ll be hard to shut up about, with an array of interchanging themed nights to showcase some of the best new comedians and comedy legends taking the stage to keep you up late laughing.
Max Watt’s, 28 MARCH-20 APRIL
Comedy Zone
Full to the brim of the country’s rising stars of the comedy scene, Comedy Zone will be presenting up and comers on the circuit Frankie Rowsthorn (WA), Henry Yan (VIC), Meg Jäger (QLD), Rapha Manajem (VIC) and William Wang (VIC).
Trades Hall Common Rooms, 28 MARCH-21 APRIL
The 34th Annual Great Debate
The festival’s famous Annual Great Debate is returning with a truckload of laughs, comic timing, and maybe just a little bit of critical argument. In two teams of three, comedy heavyweights will go up against each other in this epic fight for the best laughs, with perhaps some intelligible debating on the side.
Melbourne Town Hall Main Hall, 7 APRIL
Upfront
To showcase some of the best female and non-binary artists in the comedy scene, Upfront will be a night of spotlighting those that are trailblazing in an industry they’re changing from the inside. A mix of both big names and new names, this is the event to catch all the boldest comedians all in one place.
Melbourne Town Hall Main Hall, 8 APRIL
Raw Comedy National Grand Final
RAW Comedy: You can see the future stars of Australian comedy before they’re famous next month
Australia’s largest and most prestigious open mic competition, the past finalists of the RAW Comedy competition have gone on to make no small waves in the nation’s comedy circuit (Hannah Gadsby, Aaron Chen and Rhys Nicholson are just a few of the competition’s alumni). RAW Comedy is one of the best ways to discover the best new thing in Australian comedy.
Melbourne Town Hall Main Hall, 14 APRIL
Deadly Funny National Grand Final
Hosted by Andy Saunders, the finalists of this festival season’s Deadly Funny competition will be competing to unveil the funniest comedians and yarn-spinners from the oldest culture on earth. Joined by special guests performers, this will be a night of nothing but deadly funny laughs.
Arts Centre Melbourne, 15 APRIL
The best shows to see at Melbourne International Comedy Festival
One Womb Please!
Sarah Maree Cameron knows sometimes all you can do is laugh. In her latest show, the radio host and TV presenter tells the tale of her diagnosis of endometriosis and cervical cancer which lead her down a path of IVF and surrogacy. Equal parts shocking, vulnerable and hilarious, One Womb Please! runs from March 28 to 31 at QT Melbourne.
No Time For Games
Jeremy Dooley didn’t come to play. Known for his signature chaotic storytelling and no-fuss attitude, the comedian will be bringing his latest show, No Time For Games, where he’ll be joined each night by some of the most exciting comedy new up-and-comers, including Tyson Chappel, Hamish Deo and Jacinta Jaye. Catch the show at the Collections Bar from March 29 to April 21.
Pariah Carey
It’s been a bad year for Dan Rath. After being bitten by a tick in the CBD, he’s been diagnosed with Lyme disease, long Covid and fatigue syndrome. Now, in an effort to feel good again, he’s taking to the MICF stage to share his woes and elicit a few laughs along the way. Pariah Carey will show at Melbourne Town Hall’s Portico Room from March 28 to April 21.
The Lady Upstairs
Raised in the rainforests of far north Queensland, thrown into city life without a helmet, Danielle Walker had to figure out a way to make it work. Now, the comedian, writer, actor and Taskmaster champion will be presenting her show, The Lady Upstairs, paying tribute to the little lady in her head that runs the show. See it at the Victoria Hotel’s Banquet Room from March 28 to April 21.
Making Lemonade
Byron Bay-based comedian Alexandra Hudson feels like she has more in common with her 94-year-old grandma than she does with the rest of her peers. In her latest show, she muses on society’s assumptions on her as a disabled woman and what her experience is like navigating the mostly ableist world. Making Lemonade will show at the Westin Four from March 28 to April 21.
Sh*t Bloke
Andrew Hamilton’s Sh*t Bloke: ‘Audiences will learn some new and exciting ways to ingest cocaine’
Following his smash-hit comedy debut Jokes About The Time I Went To Prison, Andrew Hamilton returns with his new show Sh*t Bloke. Freshly out of jail after selling psychedelic drugs for over a decade, Hamilton is trying to be a better person. The Sydney-based comedian, viral YouTuber and MICF 2023 Best Newcomer nominee is coming in hot with a brand new show, set to run at Spleen Bar from March 27 to April 21.
Putting On A Show
Award-winner Alex Hines is not above giving us the old razzle dazzle. As a “middle child from a broken home”, she learned you have to work hard for your place under the spotlight. Her camp, chaotic and over-the-top style of comedy has helped her scoop up a handful of awards, and she’ll be bringing the same energy to the Malthouse’s Bagging Room stage from March 9 to April 21.
I Will Refund Your Ticket In 10 Years I Promise
This debut, brought to you by comedian Ben Hunter, is an investment into the career of a hilarious young man. Covering going to the aquarium and hypnotism, it’s unlike anything else you’ll see at MICF. Plus, he means what he says – in one decade, if you follow up with your receipt, you’ll get your money back. The show will run at the Trades Hall Archive Room from March 28 to April 7.
Annie Are You OK?
Welcome to the deadpan world of comedian Annie Boyle: ‘My friends call me a robot’
Deadpan darling Annie Boyle is here to deliver her latest work, Annie Are You OK? to Melbourne crowds. Known for her impeccable delivery and perfect timing, she’s played to sold-out audiences at festivals from Edinburgh to Adelaide. She performed her debut solo show, You’re Joking, as part of Sydney Comedy Festival’s FRESH program. Annie Are You OK? will show from March 28 to April 7.
Here Comes Mr. Forehead
Here comes Mr. Forehead, and here comes comedian, photographer, collage artist and writer Emma Holland. March 27 to April 21. The multi-talented force will bring her quirky sense of humour (and maybe a few handmade props) to the stage, offering audiences a little peek into her “sick and twisted mind”. Catch the show from March 28 to April 21 at the ACMI Gandel Lab.
The Book
Attention bookworms: Jordan Sharp’s got something for you. After losing the Class Calows National Final 2012, the Lithgow, NSW comedian and writer has been plotting out a devious plan to regain his dignity. With his latest show, he says he’s “ready to show the world what [his] mind and mouth can do.” See his latest work from April 8 to 21 at the Trade’s Hall Archive Room.
The Suraj Joke Barrage
Prepare yourselves for an hour of all-out stand-up success. You may recognise actor and comedian Suraj Kolarkar from his appearances in the films God’s Favourite Idiot and Shantaram, or you may have even had the privilege of seeing him on stage. Blending astute observation with storytelling hilarity, The Suraj Joke Barrage will run from April 9 to 14 at QT Melbourne.
Funny Garden
After snatching the Best Newcomer awards at both the Sydney and Melbourne comedy festivals in 2017, Aussie favourite Aaron Chen exploded onto the scene. You may have seen him on comedy series like Thank God You’re Here, Patriot Brains and Have You Been Paying Attention?. Renowned for his dry delivery and quick punch lines, his show will run from April 5 to 14 at the Palais Theatre.
Scallop-Toucher
From the mind of goofball comedy writer, actor and standup Samuel Campbell, Scallop-toucher will show for two delicious weeks. The UK Taskmaster alumni and Edinburgh Comedy Awards 2022 champion will bring his absurdist humour, keen observation and frantic energy to the Athenaeum Theatre stage. Catch the show from April 9 to 21.
Hot Department
Sexually liberated and spiritually advanced, Honor Wolff and Patrick Surnan Silva of Hot Department are guaranteed to bring the heat. On the heels of their award-winning 2023 show, the duo is back with a new hour of surreal and deranged sketch comedy. Known for their popular web series Dark Web, Hot Department’s latest show is expected to be a gem of the festival. It’ll run from March 28 to April 21 at The Malthouse’s Beckett Theatre.
Not So Funny Now Is It?
If you’re at all in the Melbourne comedy scene, you’ve probably heard of Damien Power. He’s been delighting audiences for over a decade now, all the way from the Sydney Opera House to Montreal, Canada. Riding the high of his stand up special Alone in the Crown, shot last year at Melbourne’s own Corner Hotel, Damien’s back with a brand-new show. See Not So Funny Now Is It? from March 28 to April 21 at Comedy Republic.
A Day in the Life of a Lesbian Bank Robber
If that title doesn’t spark your interest, we don’t know what will. Dressed in all black (balaclavas unconfirmed) the comedy-musical duo Tuck Shop Ladies are tackling the big questions in their latest show. Ukuleles in hand, Sam Lohs and Rosie Burgess will present a night of quick-witted and relatable musical masterpieces. Catch the show from April 5 to 14 downstairs at the Butterfly Club.
Best of the Edinburgh Fest
Best of the Edinburgh Fest: Four acclaimed international comedians coming to Comedy Festival
Scotland may be a bit more than a hop, skip and a jump away from Melbourne, but we won’t let distance come between us! This crowd-favourite lineup, curated by talent scout Mary Tobin, delivers three international headliners for the price of one. See UK favourites Mark Simmons and Adam Flood with guest appearances by Canada’s John Hastings or Singapore’s Ting Lim (depending on the night) at the Athenaeum Theatre Two from March 28 to April 21.
Again, With Feelings
The hit Irish stand-up comedian and host of the podcast Trusty Hogs Catherine Bohart is set to bare it all on stage with her second coming-of-age show, as she delves into her death-obsessed parents, queer reproduction and the qualms she’s having about adulthood in general. Again, With Feelings will show from March 28 to April 21 at The Westin Three.
The Rob Auton Show
UK-based poet, writer and comedian Rob Auton is set to bring his most personal show yet to the MICF stage. Best known for his unpredictable and absurdist style of comedy, the award-winning performer is shining the spotlight inward with his latest show, examining his memories, feelings and experiences. Catch the show from March 28 to April 21 at The Melbourne Town Hall Flag Room.
Oh No!
One of India’s most exciting comics is making her way to Melbourne. After winning Best Newcomer, Urooj Ashfaq is ready to unpack her hilarious takes about herself, her family, and the day to day irritations and joys of life. A crowd work master and an effortless charmer, she’s set to win over audiences with her rapid-fire speed and impeccable timing. See her perform in the Melbourne Town Hall’s Cloakroom from March 28 to April 7.
Appearing in New Order
Hailing from Paris, France, Celya AB brings her captivating stage presence and dynamic comedy to Melbourne. After starting comedy at the encouragement of UK comic Karen Bayley, Celya AB has captivated audiences from Edinburgh to Montreal. This show will see her joined by Josh Jones and Dan Tiernan. See Appearing in New Order in the Melbourne Town Hall’s Powder Room from March 28 to April 21.
Frankie Rowsthorn from Comedy Zone
Celebrating its 24th year, Comedy Zone is all about the next generation so comedy stars. Among others, this year’s edition features 21-year-old newcomer Frankie Rowsthorn, daughter of national treater Peter Rowsthorn. Her work touches on topics including living at home, figuring out her 20s and dealing with porn addiction. See her perform from March 28 at April 21 at Trades Hall Common Rooms Bar.
Full Grown
Atsuko Okatsuka has figured it all out. Last year, the LA-based, Japanese stand-up released her stand-up special The Intruder on HBO. Now, she will be heading down under for the first time ever with her show Full Grown, where she’ll teach the rest of us how being an adult is done. Known for her signature offbeat, quirky style, she’s not to be missed. See her perform for one night only on April 10 at The Palms at Crown Casino.
And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore
Last year, comic and improv artist Sam See left his home country of Singapore and moved to London. Now, he’s going to tell us all about it. His previous show, Government Approved Sx, dazzled fans at MICF 2023 and beyond, featuring open-minded sex talk and plenty of audience participation. And I Can’t Feel at Home in This World Anymore is set to run from March 28 to April 7 at the Chinese Museum’s Jade Room.
Low Energy World Tour
If you’re looking for a very casual and lowkey night on the town, Jordan Leung’s latest show has what you need. Revered for his deadpan delivery and easygoing charm, the comic and model known online as 69ranch will have the audience in stitches without even breaking into a smile. His show will run at the Chinese Museum’s Jade Room from April 9 to 21.
Why Are You Like This?
The Doctor will see you shortly. Malaysia’s Dr Jason Leong is fusing his hilarious humour and medical expertise to create a brand new hour of comedy coming on the heels of his sold out Brain Drain World Tour in 2023. Now, he’ll be putting his own personality under the microscope, trying to analyse, as objectively as possible, why he is the way he is. See the spectacle at The Greek from March 28 to Melbourne 21.
But He’s Gay…
But He’s Gay… is the debut comedy hour from writer, actor and award-winning stand up Shane Daniel Byrne. Before making people laugh for a living, Byrne was a talent in Dublin’s contemporary performance art scene. His breakthrough into comedy was swift, earning him the label of one of Ireland’s most exciting stars. See his show at the Victoria Hotel’s Boardroom from April 9 to 21.
Shelf Help
David Nihill is the definition of a vagabond. After leaving his Dublin hometown at age 22, he travelled the world and never quite stopped, visiting more than 70 countries. Coming to Australia for the first time ever, his new show features tales from abroad and from within told with his signature storytelling prowess. The hour-and-a-half long program will run for one night only on April 19 at the Comic’s Lounge.
This Is Going To Hurt
‘Repulsive stories about objects in orifices’: Adam Kay brings This Is Going To Hurt to Melbourne
Charting life in the hospital ward, this break-out hit live show is dark and macabre with a heavy dose of hilarity. This Is Going To Hurt is based on Adam Kay’s real-life experiences in the medical field and is related to his book of the same name, which was the bestselling nonfiction book of the century. See him on his first tour of Australia from April 16 to 21 at the Athenaeum Theatre.
Comedy Gold
Curated by Janet A McLeod – also known as the Fairy Godmother of Melbourne comedy – this series features an ever-changing lineup of comics from Australia and across the globe, from well-known icons to fresh faces. On every Friday night, it’s a mixed bag of goodies you won’t want to miss held in the intimate cabaret studio of The National in St Kilda from March 29 to April 19.
Huge Big Party Congratulations
You may recognise them from judging RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under, or from being the winner of MICF 2022’s Most Outstanding Show. Well, the crowd-favourite actor and comic Rhys Nicholson is back with a brand-new hour of giggles. Huge Big Party Congratulations follows Rhys, Rhys, Rhys which ran from 2020 to 2022. Catch it at Comedy Republic from March 28 to April 21.
Keeping Up
Straight out of South Africa, the moustachioed menace Schalk Bezuidenhout is here to muse on the subject of growing older and settling down. He wants to stay hip – can he do it? While studying drama at the University of Cape Town, he turned to comedy as a creative outlet. Now, with over a decade of comedy behind him, he’s solidified his place in the comedy sphere. Catch his latest show at The Greek from March 28 to April 21.
Til Death Do Us Hearts
This New Zealand comedy-pop music duo are bringing on the romance. The real-life power couple of Laura Daniel and Joseph Moore recently got married, and they’re paying off their wedding by sharing love, laughs and piping-hot new tracks with the MICF audiences. If you’re lucky, you might even catch the bouquet. See the show from March 28 to April 21 at ACMI’s Gandel Lab.
Raven
A bit spooky, a bit goofy and a whole lot entertaining, Elf Lyons’ Raven might be one of the most unusual acts at this year’s festival. Mixing clowning, horror and storytelling this is more than just a comedy show – it’s a work of art. The award-winning comedian, writer and actress has been performing solo shows for a decade now. To see what all of the fuss is about, see the show at the Greek from March 28 to April 21.
Inside Everyone
British comedian and Dead Parrot Youtuber Adrian Bliss is ready to take Melbourne audiences on an historical journey inside some of the most important people who have ever existed. Told from the perspective of an atom, this tale is as hilarious as it is epic. Known for his impressive costumes and skits, he’s sure to deliver a hit. Check out the show at the Malthouse Beckett Theatre from April 16 to 21.
I Always Knew I Had It In Me
Get ready for non-stop energy and silliness as Scotland’s Craigh Hill returns with his latest show. The hairdresser-turned-actor-slash-comedian is best known for his high-intensity charisma and uncanny impressions, he’s a force to be reckoned with. See his latest show at Chapel off Chapel from April 16 to 21.
Vertigo
Get ready for a dizzying night of laughs as Scottish comic Connor Burns takes the stage. Previously performed in Glasgow and New York, Vertigo is a punchline-packed hour spanning topics such as family drama, ugly dogs and non-stop touring. So far, it’s been a hit with audiences, selling out its initial five-show run. See Vertigo at The Greek from March 28 to April 21.
NTNNNNN
It’s the daily news, but not as you know it. This satirical news station is run by real-life journalist and TV and radio presenter Osher Günsberg. The stories may be real, but the news is made up on the spot. Featuring a star-studded team of Australia’s finest improvisers with special guests reporters each night, no two shows are the same. See it live from March 28 to April 7 at The Greek.
One Small Beer, Thanks
Kit Richards on the art of musical comedy: ‘It’s just way more fun’
2021 Moosehead recipient Kit Richards is ready to share her angelic voice and sharp humour in her latest show. After tackling important topics including the Australian wool industry and the Essendon doping scandal, Richards is turning inward, focusing on, among other things, her lightweightedness. Her musical comedy masterpiece will take over Theory Bar from April 10 to 21.
Confetti and Chaos
Confetti and Chaos: Comedy Festival’s improvised ‘whirlwind’ wedding returns
From the team behind the smash-hit Faulty Towers Dining Experience comes Confetti and Chaos: a raucous wedding reception filled with family secrets, dance floor drama and immersive improv comedy. Put on a cocktail dress, find your seat at the table and enjoy a three course dinner as the silliness unfolds all around you. You might even catch the bouquet! It’ll run from April 16 to 21 at Oaks on Market Hotel.
Faulty Towers Dining Experience
This comedy festival favourite is back by popular demand. With five star reviews across the world, the interactive improv show is jam-packed with chaos and laughs. Step inside the cult classic BBC show and join Basil, Sybil and Manuel at a three-course dinner party where nothing is to be expected. The show will run from April 5 to 14 at Oaks on Market Hotel.
WrestleBrainia VI: The Unfortunate Challenge
Calling all wrestling fans: WrestleBrainia is heading to Melbourne International Comedy Festival
Whether you’re a wrestling fanatic or you don’t know the difference between a scorpion death drop and a camel clutch, this immersive show will get the blood pumping and the sweat flowing, offering a unique and playful take on professional wrestling culture. There will also be meet and greets with top tier local wrestlers. See it in action at the Catfish Bar from April 7 to 21.
Watermelon Licking
In his latest special, comedian and cartoonist Harry Jun is exploring the similarities of and differences between Australian and Korean culture. Named after his favourite Korean saying “licking the watermelon” equal to “scratching the surface”, the show brings together stand-up, interactive crowd work and animated characters designed by Jun himself. It’ll run in the Trades Hall Archive Room from March 28 to April 21.
Collections, 2024
Beloved Australian talent Josh Glanc is bringing his distinct brand of tomfoolery back to MICF after a sold-out season at the festival in 2022. The multi-talented multi-award winner combines stand-up, music, character work and goofing off. High energy and full of surprises, the 2024 show is expected to be a dazzling hit. It’ll show at Rydges Two from March 28 to April 21.
Into the Galaxy
Created by Melbourne legend Stuart Daulman, this intergalactic comedy show weaves together quirky characters and sketches with side-splitting stand-up. Best known for his TV and ad appearances as well as his award-winning comedy shows, Daulman is a talent to be reckoned with.Into the Galaxy will be premiering at MICF, so don’t miss its run from March 28 to April 21 at the Victoria Hotel’s Acacia Room.
When I Grow Up
Comedian and clown Jeromaia Detto invites audiences to recall their childhood dreams, then write them down. Equipped with his trunk full of costumes and tricks, he’ll bring these dreams to life. Inspired by spontaneity and play, Detto offers a lighthearted and ridiculously show that’ll have the whole crowd smiling. Catch When I Grow Up at the TIC Swanston from March 29 to April 21.
Microsoft Orifice
Are you sick to death of monotonous office culture, ugly pantsuits and staring at a screen all day? So is John Glover. Equipped with a very NSFW powerpoint, he’ll be providing an escape from the drone of everyday life at an hour perfectly timed for after work knock-off drinks. Grab your coworkers and catch the show at The Catfish Bar from March 27 to April 6.
Queen Victoria Women’s Centre Comedy
The QVMC is offering up 10 wacky and wonderful comedy shows this season. Covering topics including the perils of parenthood, the bizarre expectations put on women, endometriosis, identity and self-acceptance against all odds, this feminist lineup will truly tickle your funny bone. See a show at the QVWC from March 27 to April 20.
Wrecking Ball
Jai Ashman is pulling no punches with his latest show, Wrecking Ball. Renowned for his natural storytelling ability and his infectious charm, he’ll be coming to the stage this MICF with his most personal stories yet, delving deep into his own self-destructive tendencies and how he’s survived them so far (à la Miley Cyrus). See the show at Captain Melville from April 10 to 21.
Ready, Steady, David O’Doherty
David O’Doherty may be an old hand, but he’s still got new tricks
Beloved Irish comedian and jazz musician David O’Doherty is coming in with his full bag of tricks. Armed with an electronic keyboard and more than two decades of experience on stage, he’s expected to deliver an evening of musical hilarity like no other. A tried-and-true star, he’s not to be missed. Catch the show during its run at The Capitol from March 28 to April 21.
Apology Comeback Tour
If you’re easily offended, this may not be the show for you. According to Mexican-American comedian Martin Urbano, he has been cancelled and seized by the woke Twitter mob. He is here to defend his honour with a barrage of over-the-top obnoxiousness and sleazebaggery that does not shy away from the sensitive stuff. See him in the Melbourne Town Hall’s Cloak Room from March 28 to April 7.
My Little Tiny Wet Show (baptism)
Following sold-out debut shows at last year’s MICF, legally deaf, multi-award-winning Mexican comedian Lara Ricote returns with a new hour about the surreal and silly realities of life. Partially interactive and dark (in a good way) the new hour showcases Ricote’s impressive storytelling chops and diverse life experience. It’ll run from March 28 to April 21 at ACMI’s Swinburne Studio.
The Essential Rohan Ganju
Best known for his deadpan humour, impeccable low-energy delivery and punchy two-line jokes, Melbourne’s own Rohan Ganju returns with his greatest hits. The actor and comedian has wrapped his extensive performing arts experience into one tight little package. Expect a night of chuckles, giggles and laughs – what more could you want? See the show from March 28 to April 7 in the Trades Hall Archive Room.
Daddy Short-Legs
A decade after comedian Eli Matthewson came out to his dad, his dad played an Uno Reverse and came out to him. Now, the New Zealand comedian is coming across to tell audiences tales of dodgy cars, bad AirBnB hosts and being named after the most boring Bible character. See him perform in the Flag Room at Melbourne Town Hall from April 9 to 21.
I Gave You Milk To Drink
Scotland’s multi-talented comedy queen Fern Brady is ready to release her brand new show onto MICF audiences. It’s about the universal feeling of having everything you want in life and still wanting more – like, perhaps, wanting to run a goat farm in rural Greece, or something along those lines. Brash and ballsy, the new hour will show at the Rydges Ballroom from March 28 to April 21.
Maren May is German
Come on down and get cultured. 2022 RAW Comedy State Finalist Maren May is here to share all she knows and loves about her homeland of Germany, including stereotypes, sayings about sausages, and why she was told to never date an Australian. Lederhosen optional. See the show from March 27 to April 7 at Tasma Terrace: Tasma 3.
Prawn Cocktail
Russian-British comedian and actress Olga Koch just turned 30, got her Master’s degree and got salmonella. Plus, a few more things – she’s been busy. She’s flying in to tell us all about it. She’s touring Prawn Cocktail through the UK, Australia and New Zealand alongside her current work in progress, Olga Koch Comes From Money. Catch her at The Greek Level 2 from March 28 to April 21.
Body Language
The ever-energetic Dahn Rozario has set his sights on body language: the silent yet ever so meaningful gestures we use to communicate. Following his successful show, White People Need To Relax, the new hour blends humour and physical comedy in his signature form, full of stories and observations. See him live at The Westin Two from March 28 to April 21.
157 Hours of Bad Slam Poetry
Jeremy Moses’ latest show is not, in fact, 157 hours long. It’s just one. But boy, is it jam packed. Over lockdown, the visually-impaired comic wrote and performed 100 slam poems in 100 days, winning over the hearts and minds of the country. Now, he’s here to give us a glimpse behind the process. See him perform at the Classic Cinema, Southside from April 9 to 14.
I Love Money
Screenwriter, comedian and 2018 Class Clowns grand finalist Jett Bond loves money. I mean, who doesn’t? Their new show tackles cash, economy and wealth through humorous tactics including clownery, sketch and character comedy. Expect an absurdist extravaganza that’ll be worth every penny of the modest ticket price. It’ll run from March 26 to April 5 at the Motley Bauhaus.
Roadman
A lot has changed for comedian Darren Harriott since his days as a ‘roadman’ (the UK equivalent of what we Aussies would call an ‘eshay’). He’s trying to ditch the tough facade, smile a little more and put himself in places he doesn’t feel like he belongs. The double Edinburgh Award nominee will be performing his latest hour at The Westin One from March 28 to April 21.
AmaJayus
Jay Wymarra unleashes ‘queer-feral rock-opera’ AmaJayus onto Melbourne audiences
Part comedy, part ghost story, AmaJayus is a queer-feral rock-opera about self-acceptance and finding where you fit, all told out of order by a true First Nations renaissance man, Jay Wymarra. Entirely terrifying and wonderful, AmaJayus traverses Jay’s evolved identity from comedian to political figure, musical nerd to pansexual lunatic. It’ll show in the Trade’s Hall Archive Room from April 8 to 21.
The big guns came out blazing
Fern Brady skewers societal absurdities with hilarious honesty
Carl Donnelly delights in middle-aged mundanity at this year’s Comedy Festival
Alex Hines is putting on one hell of a show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival
For up-to-date information and tickets please visit comedyfestival.com.au.
This article was made in partnership with Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
