Brisbane Comedy Festival 2018 Guide

23 FEBRUARY–25 MARCH 2018 BRISBANE POWERHOUSE + BRISBANE CITY HALL + SUNPAC

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24/11/17 5:53 pm

CONTENTS Welcome to Brisbane Comedy Festival 2018

39 After Hours

35 Jude Perl

26/52 Akmal

40 Knockoff

36 Alex Ward

11 Lawrence Mooney

48 Animated!

27 Lehmo

31 Angella Dravid +

51 Live and Local

Melanie Bracewell

21 Angus Gordon 10 Becky Lucas

I once went to the park to play Frisbee with my dog.

It was rubbish. I think I need a flatter dog.

So clearly, I’m not much of a comedian (and don’t believe in animal cruelty!) but for those after a real laugh, look no further than the even bigger and better Brisbane Comedy Festival in 2018!

The program is bursting at the seams with our largest ever lineup of more than 70 comedians and this year we’re laying comical siege across THREE mighty venues – Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane City Hall and a new venue in SunPAC! From stand-up to improvisation, musical and sketch comedy, comedy legends and newbies, we’re dishing up non-stop laughs for everyone’s sense of humour. I mean, no matter how much you push the envelope, it'll still be stationery.

From humble beginnings, Brisbane Comedy Festival is now Australia’s fastest growing comedy festival, and like all decent young upstarts we’re making our mark. Oh, and in 2019 we celebrate 10 years! I like birthdays, but I think too many can kill you.

A very special thanks to Brisbane Comedy Festival partners HCF and Brisbane Times, as well as our many generous supporters and of course you – the devotees who keep coming back for more. There is no "i" in denial, so don’t hold back! See you at a show – or two!

34 Brisburned 47 Cal Wilson 32 Cameron James 23 Cam Knight 45 Celia Pacquola 38 Class Clowns 38 Convince Me! 32 Cool Story Bro 30 Daniel Sloss 24 Danielle Walker 36 Damien Power 16 Dave Hughes 13 Dave Thornton 14 David Smiedt 09 DeAnne Smith 23 Demi Lardner 10 Des Bishop 21 Dilruk Jayasinha 45 Dusty Rich 43 Fiona O’Loughlin 17 Gen Fricker 33 Gillian Cosgriff 18 Guy Montgomery 22 Harley Breen 13 Heath Franklin’s

Kris Stewart Artistic Director, Brisbane Powerhouse

Chopper

34 Ivan Aristeguieta 47 Jacques Barrett

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL IS PRESENTED BY BRISBANE POWERHOUSE WITH SUPPORT FROM BRISBANE CITY COUNCIL

29 James Smith 06 Jeff Green 46/ 53 Jimeoin 41 Jim Gaffigan 19 Joel Creasey 35 Joe Shaffer

PAGE 01

40 Livespark 14 Luke Heggie 07 Matt Okine 24 Matt Stewart 18 Mel Buttle 12 Nazeem Hussain 06 Neel Kolhatkar 25 Nick Cody 15 Pauly Fenech 20 Peter Helliar 39 Queensland

Theatresports™ Championships

37 Queerstories 22 Rama Nicholas 04 Rich Hall 33 Rose Callaghan 31 Sam Campbell 08 Sam Simmons 24 Sam Taunton 17 Shayne Hunter 51 Simon Taylor 05 Stephen K Amos 50 The Naked

Magicians

26 The Stevenson

Experience

28 The Travelling

Sisters

33 Tim Hewitt 42 Tom Gleeson 09 Tommy Little 28 Tom Walker 03 Urzila Carlson 44 Wil Anderson 49 Yada Yada Yada 27 Zoë Coombs Marr

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL

GALA

Are you ready Brisbane?

Kicking off Brisbane Comedy Festival 2018, is our night-of-nights variety extravaganza. Frock on up, and join us for this special evening of non-stop laughs.

Join our host, Brisbane’s Mel Buttle, and fellow crowd favourites Matt Okine, Luke Heggie, Becky Lucas, Demi Lardner, plus surprise special guests.

PAGE 02

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY BRISBANE CITY COUNCIL DATE Fri 23 Feb TIME 7.30pm VENUE Main Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS $60 (f), $54 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ MAY CONTAIN COARSE LANGUAGE

STUDIES HAVE SHOWN

Every time you hear, ‘studies have shown’ you know you’re about to learn something ridiculous!

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LIVE NATION

Studies have shown your dog is happier than your cat! Who cares!

How about they give funding to scientists to come up with a way to eradicate the unibrow, or those weird thin white hairs you occasionally find attached to your face. Let’s get some research done on what happens to your blood pressure when your kid keeps getting out of bed when you’ve tucked them in 20 f*cking times already!

DATE Thu 22–Sat 24 Mar

Last year, despite adding extra shows, Urzila’s Brisbane season sold out before the festival even started. So be warned... buy your tickets right now to avoid disappointment!

PAGE 03

TIME Thu 7pm, Fri + Sat 6pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Thu $35 (f), $30 (c), Fri + Sat $40 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

URZILA CARLSON

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

RICH HALL Everyone’s favourite sardonic straight shooter Rich Hall makes his long-awaited return to Brisbane. After a sell-out Australian tour in 2016, the cranky Yank is back, bringing more of his trademark wit and caustic conversation.

PRESENTED BY MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL AND BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL

Alongside top gongs at both Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Fringe, Rich Hall has collected a legion of fans around the world. An expert stand-up, musician and improviser, Rich Hall is a master of irony and the absurd. Do not miss this true festival legend doing what he does best – nimbly delivering line after line of on-point political observations and comic banter.

VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $39 (f), $35 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95

DATE Thu 22 Mar TIME 8.45pm

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“SEARING, SMART AND SO FUNNY IT HURTS."

«««« THE ADVERTISER

PAGE 04

THE AGE

STEPHEN K AMOS BREAD AND CIRCUSES

Brexit. Trump. Mary Berry! Things are looking bleak.

So wouldn’t it be better to just forget all about it?

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND MARY TOBIN PRESENTS

Comic maestro Stephen K Amos might not be able to provide bread to the hungry masses, but no one else is going to put on a better circus. Leave your problems behind for the evening in the company of the ‘effusively charming’ Amos and who knows? Maybe the world will seem just a little bit brighter.

DATE Fri 23 Mar–Sun 25 Mar

“Deliciously deft… we roared at ad-libbing that was first rate throughout… you’ll leave the show smiling.” THE TIMES

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TIME Fri + Sat 7.45pm, Sun 6.45pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri $45.50 (f), $42.50 (c), Sat $49.50 (f), $46.50 (c), Sun $42.50 (f), $39.50 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ MAY CONTAIN COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

“LAUGHS CAME THICK AND FAST THROUGHOUT… DON’T MISS IT."

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

“uncanny impersonations, entertaining observationsNeel has been making waves in the Aussie comedy scene... and can’t be described as anything short of a star.”

«««««

THIS IS RADELAIDE

JEFF GREEN

NEEL KOLHATKAR

30 Celebrating thirty years and numerous awards, best-selling books, TV specials and sold out West End runs, Jeff Green is at the height of his comedy powers.

Jeff brings his latest, laughter-packed show to Brisbane Comedy Festival – don’t miss ‘one of the greats’ (Herald UK) in this very special 30th anniversary performance.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND FRONTIER COMEDY DATE Fri 09–Sun 11 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri + Sun $35 (f), $30 (c), Sat $35

+ transaction fee of $5.95

LIVE Neel is back with some of his best new material and some old faves!

Since skyrocketing to Internet stardom and subsequently earning one million+ followers world-wide, Neel has continued to build an impressive live following. Don't miss one of Australia's best, live on stage.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND FRONTIER COMEDY DATE Sat 10 Mar TIME 9.30pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $30 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 16+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

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THE HAT GAME

From a young age, Matt's dad taught him how to get the most out of the slurpee machine. You gotta tap and shake the cup.

Expel the air. Work it like a conga drum... These are the things our teachers never taught us.

It’s been a massive 12 months for Matt Okine. You could not miss him in 2017 when he wrote and starred in his very own hit series The Other Guy on Stan, along with hosting his own cooking show on ABC, Shortcuts to Glory and touring the country with his live stand-up show. Don’t miss seeing Matt Okine live in 2018.

“Okine is an outstanding storyteller.”

««««« THE MUSIC

PAGE 07

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY DATE Thu 01–Sun 04 Mar TIME Thu 7pm, Fri + Sat 7.45pm, Sun 6.45pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Thu + Sun $35, Fri + Sat $39 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

MATT OKINE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

SAM SIMMONS

RADICAL WOMEN OF LATIN AMERICAN ART, 1960–1985 Think you know everything about the feminist Latin art movement of urban Puerto Rico in the 1970s?!?!

Well think again as Sam Simmons turns this world inside out and upside down. All killer no vanilla, let’s go f**k a caterpillar.

Don’t miss this brand new offering from a unique, once in a generation comedian. winner BEST SHOW MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL + EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE 2015

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PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Fri 23 Mar–Sun 25 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 9.30pm, Sun 8.30pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri $28 (preview), Sat $39, Sun $35 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

TOMMY LITTLE

WORTH IT

THE LAST KING OF STUPID

Your favourite Barry-nominated Canadian/ American returns, ready to attack the last taboo.

Tommy Little is as stupid as they come. Lucky for the rest of us, stupid makes for great comedy.

Death? Sex? Sexy death? Nope! Money.

A post-industrial, consumer-based, sustainable comedy show for the new economy.

He sold out shows all over the country in 2017, so why wouldn’t you forget your troubles and come have a laugh with the best of all the idiots.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LIVE NATION

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS

DATE Thu 22–Sat 24 Mar

DATE Tue 13–Sat 17 Mar

TIME 6.45pm

TIME Tue–Fri 8.30pm, Sat 4.15pm + 8.30pm

VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse

VENUE Visy Theatre, Powerhouse Theatre (Sat 4.15pm only) Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $25 (preview), Wed + Thu $32, Fri + Sat $35 + transaction fee of $5.95

TICKETS Thu $22 (f), $20 (c), Fri + Sat $28

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“Smart, slick, silly brilliance.”

««««« THE MUSIC

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“Tommy Little is a star.”

PAGE 09

HERALD SUN

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

DEANNE SMITH

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

DES BISHOP

BECKY LUCAS

EGORITHM

CUTE FUNNY SMART SEXY BEAUTIFUL

Native New Yorker and one of Ireland’s most loved comedians, Des Bishop returns to Australia in 2018 with a brand-new show, EGORITHM. In yet another open and honest, fast paced hour of stand-up, Des will delve into his thoughts on a myriad of matters: male defensiveness around feminism; Islamophobia; his time in China; men; sexual harassment... and as always, a few dirty bits. Charismatic and clever, Des Bishop is not to be missed.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LIVE NATION DATE Thu 22 Mar–Sun 25 Mar

Becky Lucas is the most exciting and refreshing voice on the Australian comedy scene – come and see why.

In 2017, Becky saw a man on crutches trying to walk a big dog and has spent the entire year trying to write stand-up comedy that's funnier than that.

Becky has written for Emmy nominated show Please Like Me, co-wrote Matt Okine’s TV show The Other Guy for Stan and last year sold out tours nationally and overseas.

TIME Thu–Sat 7pm, Sun 6pm

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY

VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse

DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar

TICKETS Thu + Sun $25 (f), $20 (c), Fri + Sat $30

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $22, Fri + Sat $27, Sun $25

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 10

AN EVENING WITH MALCOLM TURNBULL Malcolm Bligh Turnbull has got his own tonight show.

It’s time to discover the real Malcolm. Witty, charming, hilarious and sexy. Come and spend an evening with Malcolm.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Sat 10 + Sun 11 Mar TIME Sat 6pm, Sun 5pm

“Mooney is a fierce AND fearless hunter of the funny who deserves his reputation as a master of the form.”

THE AGE

VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $44.90 + transaction fee of $5.95

“Mooney doesn’t understand what 'off the record' means.”

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

««««

SENATOR SAM DASTYARI

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BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

LAWRENCE MOONEY

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

“AND JUST WHEN YOU THINK YOU HAVE HIM PEGGED, HE SNEAKS UP ON YOU AGAIN, SHOWING SOCIETY’S CONVENTIONAL WISDOM TO BE LITTLE MORE THAN PREJUDICE, YET SOMEHOW PICKING OUT SOMETHING SIDE-SPLITTINGLY FUNNY THEREIN." THE TIMES (UK)

NAZEEM HUSSAIN NO PAIN NO HUSSAIN

Since you last saw him on stage, Nazeem Hussain has been around the world and back!

Performing live in London, Edinburgh and China, oh and swinging back to the USA to film a second series with Bill Nye… not to mention all the while recovering from those weeks in the depths of the African jungle on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! Finally Nazeem is back in Australia with a brand new show, No Pain No Hussain! Please, please believe us when we say get in early and buy your tickets now. He will sell out!

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PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LIVE NATION DATE Fri 16 + Sat 17 Mar TIME 7.45pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $40 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

HEATH FRANKLIN’S CHOPPER

SO WHAT NOW?

BOGAN JESUS Should you come see my show or not?

Tell you what, look up my stand-up comedy on YouTube and if it makes you laugh grab some tickets. This brand new show will be like that but with jokes you haven’t heard before.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar

It's time religion took a hard look at itself, so Chopper is starting his own.

There is a new 'mo-ssiah' for a new age and he's holier than Oscar Pistorius' bathroom door. Thou shalt harden up and become a Chopostle! So gather round and be healed by Bogan Jesus!

TIME Tue–Sat 7pm, Sun 6pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $25 (preview), Wed, Thu + Sun $32,

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LAUGHING STOCK PRODUCTIONS

Fri + Sat $35 + transaction fee of $5.95

DATE Sun 11 Mar

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

TIME 7pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $38 (f), $34 (c), $32 (group 6+) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“a quick and self-deprecating wit.”

THE AGE

“Australia’s funniest comedy character.”

««««« THE SUNDAY MAIL

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BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

DAVE THORNTON

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

“So very, very funny.”

JOAN RIVERS

DAVID SMIEDT

LUKE HEGGIE

FINDING CHEMO

TIPRAT

What happens when the comic that Adam Hills described as a “living breathing joke machine", is diagnosed with cancer?

What happens is a sparkling new hour of stand-up from David Smiedt that is both dark and affirming, real and raw, tight and taboo.

Show us your scar at the show and we’ll donate $5 from each ticket to the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND MARK DAVID MANAGEMENT DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar

No lowbreeds please. You heard me.

Winner of the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Comic’s Choice Award and winner of the 2017 Adelaide Fringe Weekly Comedy Award.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $25, Fri + Sat $29, Sun $27

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

TIME Tue–Sat 6.45pm, Sun 5.45pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $15, Wed, Thu + Sun $25, Fri + Sat $20

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“A unique, powerful and insightful Australian comic voice.” «««« SYDNEY MORNING HERALD “Absolutely rips along.”

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«««« HERALD SUN

THE BOGAN BIBLE

Mullets, single mums, Holdens, home-done tattoos. Ever wondered what exactly is a Bogan? Where did Bogans come from? Are you yourself in fact a Bogan? These questions and more answered by the original Bogan Hunter.

This hilarious brand new show takes you into the Bogan world with stand-up comedy, multimedia and audience interaction.

Learn to drink like a Bogan, sex it up like a Bogan, and meet some of Australia’s finest Bogans.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND FRONTIER COMEDY DATE Thu 08 Mar TIME 8.45pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $34.90 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 18+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

In the beginning was the Bogan, and the man to bring this to the stage is Logie winner, Tropfest winner and creator and star of cult TV series’ Fat Pizza and Housos.

“COMEDIC GENIUS...

A MUST SEE COMEDY SHOW."

««««« IMPULSE GAMER

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BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

PAULY FENECH

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

DAVE HUGHES THE SNORKELER

Hughesy has left an indelible mark on the Australian comedy scene over the last two decades.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS

He nails gig after gig, sells out theatres nationally and continues to get better every year. Don’t miss him!

DATE Thu 08–Sat 10 Mar

“stand-up comedy king.” HERALD SUN, 2017

TIME Thu + Fri 7pm, Sat 4.15pm + 7.45 pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Thu $30 (preview), Fri + Sat $45 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 16

SHAYNE HUNTER

(I BET YOU THINK) THIS SHOW IS ABOUT YOU

BLAZE AGAINST THE MACHINE

Gen Fricker (Drive on Triple J) cordially invites you to spend 55(ish) minutes in a room with her, so she can talk and play songs at you.

Fricker has quickly become one of the brightest young stars on the national comedy circuit, with her unique blend of sassy stand-up and dark musical experimentation, delivered with a butter-wouldn’t-melt-in-her-mouth smile.

Don’t miss Gen back in Brisbane with a brand new hilarious show. Polite applause and laughter is permitted, if not encouraged.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY DATE Fri 02–Sun 04 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 9.45pm, Sun 8.45pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse

Blaze Against The Machine is the powerful return of Shayne Hunter to the comedy circuit.

Why are some drugs illegal while others are legally pushed onto children for profit? Shayne draws upon his own relationship with addiction and its negative impacts, shining a light on the hypocrisy of the "war on drugs".

Shayne is a hilarious act who will not only make you laugh, he will make you think.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY DATE Fri 16–Sun 18 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 9.45pm, Sun 8.45pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri + Sun $20, Sat $25 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

TICKETS Sat $28, Fri + Sun $25 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 17

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

GEN FRICKER

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

MEL BUTTLE

GUY MONTGOMERY

DOG BITCH

DOESN'T CHECK HIS PHONE FOR AN HOUR

Mel is a dog lady, a dog fan, in fact once a man in a pub in Perth called her a dog bitch.

Despite growing up with a fear of dogs, and having an allergy to dogs, Mel has made the illogical decision to work as a casual dog walker around Brisbane; there’s nothing a 70 pack of Telfast and a puffer can’t fix, right?

Come, sit and stay for an hour of dog yarns with one of Australia’s favourite comedians. *Cat owners welcome, I guess...

For an entire hour Guy Montgomery will do the unthinkable – resist the overwhelming urge to check his phone for any notifications, emails or text messages.

You read that correctly. Guy will walk on stage, place his phone within arms-reach and then gallantly ignore it for a full sixty minutes.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND PEOPLE PEOPLE DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.15pm, Sun 7.15pm

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 7pm, Sun 6pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $24 (preview), Fri + Sat $34, Sun $28

VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu + Sun $20, Fri + Sat $25

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

Nominee BEST SHOW NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017

winner BEST NEWCOMER MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2016

PAGE 18

BLONDE BOMBSHELL

Australia's Crown Prince of Comedy, Joel Creasey, has whored himself across Australian TV screens from comedy galas, panel shows, celebrity interviews and even the depths of the African jungle.

He is the protégé of the late, great Joan Rivers, and this past year alone presided over commentary duties at Eurovision, released his first memoir, won GQ Comedian of the Year, made his debut in a TV drama. Oh... and played a slut on Neighbours.

So you better believe he is ready to rip back the curtain and fill you in on all the juicy behind-the-scenes action. Strap yourselves in for a night with this blonde bombshell as he slices, dices, sasses and smashes celebrities, pop culture and himself.

As Joel's rule always stands... anyone not in the room... is a target!

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PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LIVE NATION DATE Fri 16–Sun 18 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 9.30pm, Sun 8.30pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri + Sat $35, Sun $35 (f), $30 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

JOEL CREASEY

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

PETER HELLIAR BIG BOY PANTS

There comes a time in every man’s life when he must put on his big boy pants and get on with it…

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS

Getting a vasectomy is a pretty good place to start.

DATE Fri 02–Sun 04 Mar

Peter Helliar returns with what he calls his “most recent show yet”.

VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri $39 (preview), Sat + Sun $45 + transaction fee of $5.95

TIME Fri + Sat 6pm, Sun 5pm

As seen on THE PROJECT, CRAM AND HAVE YOU BEEN PAYING ATTENTION?

“Helliar’s a real pro.”

«««« HERALD SUN

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 20

DILRUK JAYASINHA

STAN UP (AQUATIC)

BUNDLE OF JOY

Living with one’s passions amounts to living with one’s suffering.

Dil is one of the most refreshing and exciting voices in Australian comedy.

When a man has learned how to remain alone with his suffering, how to overcome his longing to flee, then he has little left to learn.

Don’t miss his brand new show.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Thu 15–Sun 18 Mar

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ANGUS GORDON DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu + Sun $22, Fri + Sat $25

TIME Thu–Sat 6.45pm, Sun 5.45pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Thu $24 (preview), Fri + Sat $32, Sun $29 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

as seen on UTOPIA, CRAM AND HAVE YOU BEEN PAYING ATTENTION?

“A BRILLIANT HOUR.” «««« HERALD SUN, 2017 winner BEST NEWCOMER MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017

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BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

ANGUS GORDON

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

HARLEY BREEN

RAMA NICHOLAS

FLAT OUT DOING NOTHING

THE LUCKY ONES

If you’re not trying to do less at your life, then you’re doing Australia wrong.

One woman. 17 characters. Two hilariously erotic adventures.

Comedy favourite, Harley Breen’s Flat Out Doing Nothing is as Aussie as throwing a sickie. More Australian than a snag at a polling booth. It’s so bloody down under, you’ll leave upside down.

A uniquely theatrical comedy experience – a one-woman, gender-bending, genre-blending adventure that will take you from the depths of the ocean to the furthest edge of the galaxy. It’s the most heart-gripping, pants-tingling hour you’ll experience this festival.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LAUGHING STOCK PRODUCTIONS DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed, Thu + Sun $28 (f), $25 (c), Fri + Sat $32 + transaction fee of $5.95

DATE Tue 20–Sun 25 Mar

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

+ transaction fee of $5.95

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND RAMA NICHOLAS

TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu + Sun $23, Fri + Sat $27

SUITABLE FOR AGE 18+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“Fantastically amusing”

«««« BEAT MAGAZINE “An excess of charm”

PAGE 22

««««« BEAT MAGAZINE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

DEMI LARDNER

CAM KNIGHT

I LOVE SKELETON

GET RICH OR DIE CRYING

Break out star of last year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival makes her Brisbane debut.

A good serve of Demi Lardner can help build muscles, maintain healthy hair and nails, and make your bones strong and handsome.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LAUGHING STOCK PRODUCTIONS DATE Fri 23–Sun 25 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 8.15pm, Sun 7.15pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Fri $22, Sat + Sun $28 (f), $25 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

winner DIRECTOR’S CHOICE MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017

“Her hype has been well-earned... succinct moments of startling genius.”

Cam is RICH in experience, LOADED with quick-fire one liners and brutally honest stories, mixed in with a pocketful of crowd work.

They say money can't buy happiness? Buy a ticket to see Cam and discover that's grossly inaccurate.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY DATE Tue 20–Sun 25 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue + Wed $24, Thu + Sun $27, Fri + Sat $29

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“From the minute he takes the stage, the laughs come thick & fast.”

««««« THEATRE PEOPLE

«««« EDINBURGH FESTIVAL GUIDE

PAGE 23

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

SAM TAUNTON

IT'S NICE, IT'S MODERN

One of the most exciting new voices in Australian comedy, Sam Taunton explores perspective, second chances and why you should never use the toilets at music festivals. Nominated for Best Newcomer at the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Sam’s captive storytelling and quick fire punchlines have seen him play venues worldwide to rave reviews.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND SAM TAUNTON DATE Tue 20–Sun 25 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $17, Wed, Thu + Sun $22 (f), $17 (c), Fri + Sat $27 (f), $22 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

MATT STEWART DRY GINGER MALE

After a sell-out run at FRINGE WORLD and Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Matt Stewart is back with a brand new show. Dry Ginger Male is an ironic look at masculinity, man caves, fatherhood and politics, brimming with Stewart's trademark dry humour.

“HIS TIGHT ONE LINE SURREAL OBSERVATIONS MAKE THE STAGE HIS HOME.”

«««« THE AUSTRALIA TIMES PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL, STUPID OLD STUDIOS AND ESC PRODUCTIONS DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $21.75, Wed–Sun $25.75 (f), $22.75 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

DANIELLE WALKER BUSH RAT

Hi, I'm Danielle, my grandad calls me Bush Rat. Once I was bored and he gave me a magnifying glass to burn my dead dog’s name onto a piece of wood so we could put it on his grave. Please come to my show. I won RAW Comedy, was on Get Krack!n, and performed at Just for Laughs.

“INSANE PAY-OFFS, DELIVERED WITH THE UNHINGED LAUGH A BATMAN VILLAIN WOULD BE PROUD OF.” CHORTLE UK PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $24 (preview), Fri + Sat $29, Sun $27 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 24

LOOSE UNIT

Your old mate Cody is back with his luscious ginger beard and a new hour of world class stand-up, ready to blow the roof off.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY

In the last year alone he has been all over the TV, is one of only a few Australians to perform on Conan in the USA and has toured the globe to packed crowds.

DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar

As seen on Have You Been Paying Attention?, Melbourne International Comedy Festival Gala and heaps more. You know what to do.

TIME Tue–Sat 7pm, Sun 6pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $25, Fri + Sat $32, Sun $29 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“A master storyteller en route to being one of the biggest names out there.”

BROADWAY BABY

«««««

“MASTERFUL HOUR OF STAND-UP."

«««« HERALD SUN

PAGE 25

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

NICK CODY

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

AKMAL

THE STEVENSON EXPERIENCE

TRANSPARENT

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Akmal returns with his funniest show ever in the history of comedy. Paramedics will be on call to transport audience members to hospital as their sides split from laughter.* Akmal is one of Australia's most respected, successful and accomplished comics, displaying an incredible ability to deal with hot topics in a hilarious and slightly offensive way. His new show is no exception. *Please consult your doctor before seeing this show.

Not recommended for people under the age of 18 or over the age of 18, or people with lawyers. NO REFUNDS. PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU

After sell-out seasons at Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Edinburgh Festival Fringe, The Stevenson Experience debut in Brisbane with an hour of uproarious musical comedy from Australia’s favourite bickering identical twins.

Settle in for hilarious songs that have seen them compared to Flight of The Conchords and Tim Minchin.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed–Sun $25 (f), $20 (c)

DATE Sat 03 + Sun 04 Mar

+ transaction fee of $5.95

TIME Sat 9.30pm, Sun 8.30pm

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $40 (f), $37 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

SEE P

52

“An absolute stand-out, one-of-the-bestmoments-of-the-Fringe.” ««««« THE FOUNTAIN (EDINBURGH)

PAGE 26

ZOË COOMBS MARR

HAPPY ANGRY

BOSSY BOTTOM

Lehmo is happy angry. He's never angry to be happy but he is happy to be angry.

Getting happy angry is fast becoming an Australian pastime – whether it be about holding a baby and a beer at the same time, same-sex marriage, spoilt pets or the deliberate out of bounds rule. Lehmo is jumping on board with this all new hour of stand up.

Zoë has been on hiatus. Sort of.

For the past six years, she’s been a terrible male comedian with a neckbeard called Dave, winning stacks of awards and tons of great reviews.

Whatever. Now, she’s scraped off the neckbeard and is BAAAAACK… as herself.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Wed 14–Sun 18 Mar

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Sat 10 + Sun 11 Mar TIME Sat 5.30pm, Sun 4.30pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $35 + transaction fee of $5.95

TIME Wed–Sat 8.15pm, Sun 7.15pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Wed $24 (preview), Thu + Sun $28, Fri + Sat $32

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

Winner BEST SHOW MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2016

“Zoë Coombs Marr is a genius.”

««««

HERALD SUN

“One of those guys you’d love to have a beer with.” «««« HERALD SUN

PAGE 27

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

LEHMO

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

“Not for the faint of heart.

Real weird. Real good.”

«««« HERALD SUN, 2017

THE TRAVELLING SISTERS

TOM WALKER HONK HONK HONK HONK HONK

TOUPÉ Masterfully combining physical comedy, characters and original music, The Travelling Sisters are 'insane geniuses of sketch comedy'.

This infectious trio conjure up characters and twists you won’t see coming. It’s a theme park ride for the soul.

Hey man just this for the blurb: Tom Walker is the strongest man in the world.

Tom is constantly gaining skills and topping the leaderboards of alternative comedy fantasy leagues worldwide. This will be him onstage for an amount of time that is not too much or too little, just enough NO FURTHER QUESTIONS.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND THE TRAVELLING SISTERS

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS

DATE Fri 23–Sun 25 Mar

DATE Tue 20–Sun 25 Mar

TIME Fri + Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $30 (f), $26 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

winner BEST COMEDY MELBOURNE FRINGE FESTIVAL 2017

TIME Tue–Thu 8.15pm, Fri + Sat 9.45pm, Sun 8.45pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $24 (preview), Fri + Sat $29, Sun $25

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

nominee BEST SHOW MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017

PAGE 28

PLEASURE ENTHUSIAST

Personally selected by Chris Rock to perform on his recent arena tour, James is one of only four Australian comedians ever to perform on Conan and the only Australian to be a regular at the Comedy Cellar in New York City.

He’s appeared on Flight of the Conchords, Just For Laughs, Comedy Central and written for the Roasts of Justin Bieber and Rob Lowe.

PAGE 29

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Fri 09 Mar TIME 8.45pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $30 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

JAMES SMITH

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

“DELICIOUSLY DARK STAND-UP."

«««« MAIL ON SUNDAY

DANIEL SLOSS NOW

NOW is the smash-hit new show from internationally acclaimed, award-winning Scottish comedian, Daniel Sloss.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL, CENTURY AND MZA

Star of Conan (a record seven appearances), he's performed ten sell-out Edinburgh Festivals, two solo off-Broadway seasons, released a DVD, gave a TEDx talk (aged 19) and tours extensively throughout UK, Australasia, USA and Europe. NOW...what's next?!

DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar

“Sloss is a festival highlight. See him.”

««««

THE AGE

“Sloss is simply world class… Endearingly unabashed... hilarious… Intelligently and ironically calling out the hypocrisy of human nature” BROADWAY BABY

««««

PAGE 30

TIME Tue–Sat 8.30pm, Sun 7.30 pm DURATION 75 mins VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue–Thu $30, Fri–Sun $35 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

Two of New Zealand’s fastest rising comedy acts are coming to Brisbane for the first time.

Angella Dravid, winner of the prestigious Billy T Award and Melanie Bracewell, declared Best Newcomer at the 2017 New Zealand International Comedy Festival create a spectacular show from across the ditch not to be missed!

SAM CAMPBELL TROUGH The winner of Director’s Choice Award at Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2016, brings you the craziest comedy show at the whole ruddy festival!

You can go and see all the other shows if you want BUT this one really will knock you off your feet and carry you into ethereal paradise.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND PEOPLE PEOPLE

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND CENTURY

DATE Fri 09–Sun 11 Mar

DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar

TIME Fri + Sat 9.45pm, Sun 8.45pm

TIME Tue–Sat 6.45pm, Sun 5.45pm

VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse

VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse

TICKETS Fri + Sat $20, Sun $15 + transaction fee of $5.95

TICKETS Tue–Thu $20, Fri + Sat $25, Sun $22

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“A COMIC GENIUS"

««««« HERALD SUN

PAGE 31

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

ANGELLA DRAVID AND MELANIE BRACEWELL

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

COOL STORY BRO

CAMERON JAMES CHILLED OUT/ FIRED UP

Welcome to Cool Story Bro, the anarchic night where true tales and off-the-cuff comedy collide!

Each show features a special guest home-grown comedian sharing real stories from their lives.

Brisbane’s best improvisers then remix those stories, improvising a one-of-a-kind show that you'll never see again.

Cam presents a killer hour of pure stand-up about life’s most annoying everyday challenges and the good and evil voices that guide us through them.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND BIG FORK THEATRE

Plus there’ll be one joke about a panda bear that’s pretty cute and maybe an impression of a kid playing recorder (if he can be bothered learning it).

DATE Sat 10, 17 + 24 Mar TIME 5.15pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU

TICKETS $22 (f), $18 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95

DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

TIME Tue–Sat 8.15pm, Sun 7.15 pm VENUE Rooftop Terrace, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed, Thu + Sun $22, Fri + Sat $25

+ transaction fee of $5.95

“BIG FORK THEATRE ARE A GIFT TO

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY. ANY SHOW THEY ARE INVOLVED IN IS NOT TO BE MISSED."

«««««

««««« THE MUSIC

ANYWHERE THEATRE FESTIVAL

PAGE 32

HEWY'S COOKED ADVENTURES

Self-proclaimed prince of Brisbane returns home from Melbourne with his debut solo show. Take ripper yarns, mix with character comedy and season with a healthy dash of the riff. Hewitt covers nights on Goldies with the old man on a family holiday, to ragers at music festivals and every party in between.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TIM HEWITT DATE Tue 06–Sun 11 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $18, Wed, Thu + Sun $22, Fri + Sat $27 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

GILLIAN COSGRIFF

TO THE MOON AND BACK

Award-winning musical comedian Gillian Cosgriff has concerns about the future. Instead of seeing exciting possibilities, all she can think about is the impending apocalypse. See her now, before the world inevitably ends.

“There’s not a single gag that doesn’t land, nor a hair out of place.”

««««« HERALD SUN PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND GILLIAN COSGRIFF DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed, Thu + Sun $23, Fri + Sat $28 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

ROSE CALLAGHAN NO WAY ROSÉ

Rose Callaghan makes her Brisbane debut with her new show No Way Rosé. Find out how Rose has done some of the best and worst things in her life while drinking and why rosé is nicknamed “cougar juice”.

Callaghan is making a name for herself, mostly with security guards but also in comedy, winning best comedy at Sydney Fringe and selling out at festivals across Australia.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Tue 20–Thu 22 Mar TIME 7.15pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed + Thu $25 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 18+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 33

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

TIM HEWITT

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

BRISBURNED

IVAN ARISTEGUIETA

SKETCH COMEDY ABOUT BRISBANE

MATADOR Ever since he was young, Ivan wanted to be a Matador.

If your relationship with Brisbane is love/ hate, then see this show.

After three sold-out shows at Bris Funny Fest, this hilarious revue-style comedy shines a light on Brisbanites and their daily frustrations and exasperations. From bridge climbers and football commentators to John Oxley – no one is overlooked.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND MARK LOMBARD DATE Sat 10, 17 + 24 Mar TIME 5.45pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $25 (f), $20 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

Star of his own ABC show Lost in Pronunciation, Australia’s favourite Venezeulan makes his Brisbane debut. Matador is about the fight we all have within ourselves to love something despite its horns.

All jokes, no bull.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND LAUGHING STOCK PRODUCTIONS DATE Wed 21–Sun 25 Mar TIME Wed–Sat 8.30pm, Sun 7.30pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Wed $20, Thu + Sun $28 (f), $25 (c), Fri + Sat $32

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

winner BEST NEWCOMER SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL 2016

PAGE 34

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

JUDE PERL

JOE SHAFFER

LET’S HANG OUT

HERE'S LOOKING AT YOU, SQUID

Fusing her song writing talent with stand-up to great effect, Jude Perl's Let's Hang Out is an hour of social commentary, catchy tunes, and ever so graceful lamenting of weird things one does as a child, an adult, and everywhere in between.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND HOT MESS PRODUCTIONS DATE Tue 06–Thu 08 Mar TIME 8.45pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $25, Wed + Thu $32 (f), $28 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

A show for animal lovers and haters alike!

Here's Looking at You, Squid is a show all about animals, but also love and regrets. But mostly animals. Most animals are great, but swoop birds are the worst. Fun and interesting facts about animals mixed with witty social commentary that reminds us all that we are really just animals in clothes.

As seen on ABC TV and heard on ABC Radio, Joe Shaffer returns to Brisbane with his signature upbeat style and hilarious jokes. You can't bear to miss it!

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND BASED COMEDY DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.45pm, Sun 7.45pm

winner TWO CONSECUTIVE GREEN ROOM AWARDS FOR BEST ORIGINAL SONG

“Funny, engaging and clever”

VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed–Sun $25 (f), $20 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95

THE AUSTRALIAN

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 35

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

DAMIEN POWER

ALEX WARD

VIOLENT CHAOS ANYONE?

GOOD, GREAT.

Damien Power is on an unprecedented hot streak with three nominations in a row for best show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Damien’s assured style and material that swerves from the everyday to the philosophical has everyone talking, thinking and laughing.

He is not to be missed!

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Tue 27 Feb–Sun 04 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 8.30pm, Sun 7.30pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue + Thu $24 (preview), Fri + Sat $32, Sun $28

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

Alex believes that everyone is trying their best, but somehow people at their best can still be simply the worst. Alex is no exception, she’s quite possibly the best at being the worst.

To be fair she doesn’t try that hard though.

Following a sold out season in 2017, Alex returns to her home town from Melbourne, and believes her comedy will fill you with some anxiety and then warmth and then self-belief and... maybe love?

When not performing stand-up, Alex is writing for Network 10’s The Project.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALEX WARD DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar TIME Tue–Sat 7.15pm, Sun 6.15pm VENUE Graffiti Room, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Tue $20, Wed, Thu + Sun $22, Fri + Sat $25

+ transaction fee of $5.95

winner PINDER PRIZE MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

nominee BARRY AWARD MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017, BEST SHOW MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL 2017, 2016 + 2015

“masterpiece.” ««««« HERALD SUN, 2017

“Sophisticated, intelligent comedy; Ward is a scholar of the craft.” «««« THE MUSIC PAGE 36

Join host Maeve Marsden and your favourite LGBTQI comedians for a night of unexpected tales of lives well lived and battles fought, pride, prejudice, love and of course humour.

Featuring Alex Ward, Ben McLeay, Nayuka Gorrie and more to be announced.

In its usual home in Sydney, Queerstories has been selling out every month for over a year, bringing storytellers from all walks of life to the stage. Now Queerstories travels interstate, debuting at Brisbane Comedy Festival. Funny, moving, surprising and engaging, the stories from Queerstories are also available as a podcast.

IMAGE: PATRICK BOLAND AND VIV MCGREGOR

PAGE 37

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL DATE Sat 17 Mar TIME 6pm VENUE Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $25 (f), $20 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 THIS EVENT IS AUSLAN INTERPRETED SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

QUEERSTORIES

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

CONVINCE ME! BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL DEBATES Grab your palm cards, polish your rebuttal and join us in reclaiming the art of debating from Twitter trolls and racist aunties!

Convince Me! returns with more noted Brisbane brains from a diverse range of backgrounds and professions ready to argue for your approval.

No topic will be too strange or ridiculous for our clever teams of riotous rhetoricians as they take up opposing positions and work hard to win you over.

Each debate will feature a different line up, all under the watchful eye of Mr Moderator. But ultimately it is you, the thinking comedy lover that needs to be convinced...

CLASS CLOWNS Each year hundreds of teens put down their pencils and pick up the microphone, as they take to the stage in the Class Clowns competition.

Be part of Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s one-of-a-kind, national secondary school comedy competition open to people in Years 9–12. Register your stand-up, sketch, physical or musical act for free and participate in a two-hour workshop/ rehearsal with a professional comedian to polish your act before performing for a real live audience.

State Final winners perform at the National Grand Final in Melbourne and go into the running to win a $2500 prize package.

With alumni including Joel Creasey, Rhys Nicholson, Aaron Chen and Tom Ballard, Class Clowns is a oneof-a-kind experience and a springboard to success!

Join us as the sun sets on the weekend for a last laugh.

To register go to www.classclowns.com.au

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL

PRESENTED BY MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL AND BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL

DATE Sun 04, 11, 18 + 25 Mar TIME 4.30pm Topic Announce, 5.30pm Convince Me! Debate VENUE Turbine Platform, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Free SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES MAY CONTAIN COARSE LANGUAGE

DATE Sat 10 Mar + Tue 13 Mar (heats), Sun 18 Mar (finals) TIME Sat 3pm, Tue 2pm, Sun 3pm VENUE Visy Theatre, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Heats: Free, Finals: $17 (f), $13 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 13+

IMAGE: LAUREN DUONG, NATIONAL WINNER CLASS CLOWNS 2016

PAGE 38

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

QUEENSLAND THEATRESPORTS™ CHAMPIONSHIPS Choose a team! Our state’s finest impro comedians are going head to head with songs, games and scenes, all invented on the spot from your suggestions.

Armed with nothing but their wits, they’ll duke it out on the Turbine Platform in a series of hilarious free shows – but only one team will ascend the leaderboard to become the Queensland Theatresports™ champions!

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND IMPROMAFIA DATE Fri 02, 09, 16 + 23 Mar + Sat 03,10, 17 + 24 Mar TIME 7.45pm VENUE Turbine Platform, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Free

AFTER HOURS Don't miss the festival's late-night variety show with a mix of festival acts and Brisbane's best local comedians.

Hosted by Dusty Rich and a surprise special guest (09 + 10 Mar), After Hours features an ever changing line up. This is where your favourite comedians go to get loose, try new material and bring back some old favourites. Anything can happen at After Hours!

Line up announced each week at brisbanecomedyfestival.com PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL DATE Fri 02, 09, 16 + 23 Mar + Sat 03, 10, 17 + 24 Mar TIME 10.15pm VENUE Turbine Studio, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS $15 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 18+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 39

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

LIVESPARK

KNOCKOFF

FREE MUSIC

FREE COMEDY

Wind down for the weekend with a good dose of free live music every Sunday afternoon.

Brisbane Powerhouse’s free comedy Friday continues during Brisbane Comedy Festival!

Livespark continues during Brisbane Comedy Festival featuring some of Brisbane and Australia’s finest songwriters and musicians.

Start your weekend right. If you like your comedy free, funny and full of surprises – look no further!

Held on the Turbine Platform every Friday afternoon during the Festival, the Knockoff line-up includes a variety of local and national comedians bringing you the best one-liners.

Check the weekly program at www.facebook.com/livesparkmusic PRESENTED BY BRISBANE POWERHOUSE AND SUGARRUSH MUSIC DATE 04, 11, 18 + 25 Mar TIME 3.30pm VENUE Turbine Platform, Brisbane Powerhouse TICKETS Free SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES

Line-up announced weekly at facebook.com/knockoffcomedy PRESENTED BY BRISBANE POWERHOUSE DATE 02, 09, 16 + 23 Mar TIME 6pm VENUE Turbine Platform, Brisbane Powerhouse

PICTURED: EMMA BOSWORTH

TICKETS Free

BRISBANE AIRPORT CORPORATION IS KEEPING THIS FREE PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TRIPLE M

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY TRIPLE M

PAGE 40

JIM GAFFIGAN Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum-selling, top touring comedian, actor and two times New York Times best-selling author Jim Gaffigan is coming to Australia!

Known for his unique observational humour which largely revolves around fatherhood, life and food, Jim Gaffigan is one of the world’s most familiar faces in comedy.

DATE Fri 23–Sat 24 Mar TIME 7pm VENUE Main Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS $54.90 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ MAY CONTAIN COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

The Jim Gaffigan Show, Flight of the Conchords and Portlandia star is one of ten comedians to ever sell out Madison Square Garden, has hit iTunes’ Comedy Top 25 five times and made Forbes’ 2016 list of highest-grossing comedians. Don’t miss the comedy maestro live and in full flight!

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND FRONTIER COMEDY

“SMART, CONVERSATIONAL, AND DAMN FUNNY." THE LAUGH BUTTON (US)

PAGE 41

TOM GLEESON SURE THING

"Who should we see?"

"Tom Gleeson."

"Sure thing."

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Thu 22–Sat 24 Mar

Star of the The Weekly and host of ABC TV’s Hard Quiz.

“If there was such an event as the mythical comedy olympics, GLEESON WOULD TAKE ON HECKLERS FOR AUSTRALIA.” HERALD SUN

TIME 8.50pm VENUE Main Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Thu $39 (preview), Fri $40, Sat $45 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL PAGE 42

GAP YEAR

Fiona’s been on a bit of a trip... of a lifetime. After finishing a Masters in how not to deal with some of life’s misgivings she’s decided she’s learned a few things.

How to talk to nurses after being away for a while (in a coma), how to not sweat the sweat, and getting back to doing what she does best, making us all laugh with a raconteur’s glide of effortless fun.

Fiona sweeps through life’s tales with a frankness and honestly that none other possess. Don’t miss this brand new show that will leave you wanting more.

“You’d have to have a heart of stone not to enjoy it.”

«««« HERALD SUN

“My stomach muscles are still aching… this woman is really, really, really funny.” THE SUNDAY AGE PAGE 43

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND MARK DAVID MANAGEMENT DATE Wed 21–Sat 24 Mar TIME 7pm VENUE Ithaca Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Wed $25 (preview), Thu $30 (f), $27 (c), Fri + Sat $35 (f), $31 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

FIONA O'LOUGHLIN

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

WIL ANDERSON WILEGAL

Wil spent 2017 performing sold-out shows from Melbourne to Montreal. He also got arrested on a plane to Wagga Wagga so that will probably get a mention.

Six-time winner of the People’s Choice Award at Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Host of ABC TV’s Gruen and heard on podcasts TOFOP, Wilosophy and 2 Guys 1 Cup. “Bravo. Go see it.”

««««« THE AGE

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Fri 16–Sun 18 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 8.50pm, Sun 6pm VENUE Main Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Fri + Sat $49, Sun $47 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 44

DUSTY RICH

CELIA PACQUOLA

NOT FROM AROUND HERE

ALL TALK

A new hour of stand-up mixed with his interstellar trademark crowd work and extra-terrestrial unpredictable hilarity! Join Dusty as he explores the universe inside our minds and what’s next for our inter-galactic species, probing the crowd like a sexy comedic space alien.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND BASED COMEDY DATE Thu 15–Sat 17 Mar TIME Thu 7.15pm, Fri + Sat 8pm

Star of ABC TV’s Rosehaven returns to Brisbane Comedy Festival with the world premiere of her brand new show, All Talk.

Six shows only, will sell out – book today!

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar TIME Tue–Thu 8.30pm, Fri + Sat 7.45pm, Sun 6.45pm VENUE Ithaca Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Tue $30 (preview), Wed + Thu $35, Fri + Sat $42,

Sun $39 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

VENUE Brisbane Room, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Thu $25 (f), $20 (c), Fri + Sat $30 (f), $25 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“One of our most gifted stand-ups at the top of her game.” THE AGE

“An absolute master of crowd interaction.”

SPEAKEASY (NZ)

PAGE 45

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

South African comedian from outer space, Dusty Rich is invading Australian comedy.

JIMEOIN

THE RIDICULOUS From the ridiculous to the hilarious…

Come and see Jimeoin’s new show as he takes you into the brain of one the world’s best stand-up comedians and masters of observational humour.

“Jimeoin is a true comedy legend doing what he does best… finding the funny in everyday situations”

««««

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Fri 16 + Sat 17 Mar TIME 7pm VENUE Main Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS $49 (f), $45 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

THE ADVERTISER

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL PAGE 46

SEE P

53

CAL WILSON

IS PARTICULY GOOD AT THIS

HINDSIGHT

One great man, and his truly amazing show.

Cal’s made some awful decisions – relationships, jobs, the ’90s.

This is one man's journey into the pitfalls of tall-poppy syndrome. If you've ever posted an online review for your own restaurant, business or church... Jacques is a must see.

She's made some great ones as well, she just didn't realise at the time. Cal's trying to make sense of everything she’s ever done. Or she might just tell some jokes. You’ll only know afterwards.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND TOKEN EVENTS

DATE Thu 22–Sun 25 Mar

DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar

TIME Thu 7.15pm, Fri + Sat 8pm, Sun 7pm VENUE Brisbane Room, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Thu + Sun $25, Fri + Sat $30 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“A handsome 5 star hero who also happens to do comedy.” YELP

TIME Tue–Thu 7pm, Fri + Sat 6.15pm, Sun 5.15pm VENUE Ithaca Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Tue $25 (preview), Wed, Thu + Sun $32, Fri + Sat $37

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

“a fast-paced hour of hilarious musings.”

«««« THE ADVERTISER, 2017

PAGE 47

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

JACQUES BARRETT

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

ANIMATED!

AN IMPROVISED MUSICAL FAIRYTALE Is your life completely bereft of talking animals?

Still cruising Tinder for true love’s kiss?

Consider ImproMafia your fairy godparents.

Get set for a whole new world of comedy as these Brisbane legends wave their magic wands and transform your everyday problems into a completely improvised adults-only parody of everyone’s favourite animated films!

With a little fairy dust and some audience suggestions, they’ll sing, dance (awkwardly) and narrowly avoid copyright infringement. When it comes to hilarity, you ain’t never had a friend like ImproMafia.

“Hilarious from start to finish... ImproMafia have once again shown that they know their stuff and can strut it with ease on stage.”

THE CREATIVE ISSUE

PAGE 48

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND IMPROMAFIA DATE Tue 13–Sun 18 Mar TIME Tue–Thu 8.45pm, Fri + Sat 9.30pm, Sun 8.30pm VENUE Brisbane Room, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Tue $19, Wed–Sun $28 (f), $22 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

YADA YADA YADA A ’90s SITCOM SPECIAL

Hitting the ever popular City Hall for Brisbane Comedy Festival, Yada Yada Yada brings together the much lauded comic stylings of Lauren Edwards and Jude Perl. Described as 'Australia’s next Gina Riley and Jane Turner' (Stage Whispers) this slice of hilarity is a journey through what made iconic ‘90s sitcoms all that.

PAGE 49

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND HOT MESS PRODUCTIONS DATE Fri 16–Sat 17 Mar TIME 9.15pm VENUE Ithaca Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS $30 (f), $25 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

It’s been 20 years since Ross and Rachel were on a break, Elaine busted out her outrageous dance moves at a work ‘do, and we fell in love with the flashy girl from Flushing.

Celebrating the best decade of television history, Fran and Yetta are filming A ’90s Sitcom Special, and you’re invited.

Yep, even you, Ugly Naked Guy.

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

THE NAKED MAGICIANS Seen on London’s West End, in 200+ cities around the world and by over 50 million on television – The Naked Magicians is undoubtedly the world’s funniest and naughtiest magic show!

Featuring magic, mirth and more than a touch of mayhem these two hot and hilarious Aussie magicians say abracadabra and take magic to a whole new level.

This boisterous R-rated magic show strips away the top hats and capes, promising full-frontal illusions. Left without sleeves or pockets, their saucy magic is baffling and entertaining, bringing a new meaning to 'now you see it'.

Good magicians don’t need sleeves and great magicians don’t need pants. This show proves just that!

“We were left with laugh induced aching jaws”

«««««

FRINGE REVIEW UK

PAGE 50

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND SAMUEL KLINGNER ENTERTAINMENT DATE Wed 21–Sun 25 Mar TIME Wed–Sat 8.30pm, Sun 7.30pm VENUE Ithaca Auditorium, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Wed–Sun VIP $79.90*, Tue $39.90, Wed–Sun $49.90 (f), $44.90 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 * VIP includes premium seat, meet + greet and photo opportunity with The Naked Magicians and a VIP lanyard.

SUITABLE FOR AGE 18+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE AND NUDITY

LIVE AND LOCAL

SIMON TAYLOR HAPPY TIMES

Then he was told he might not be the dad. Then he was told he was probably the dad. Then he read the entire Internet trying to work out his chances of being the dad. This show details the hilarious mess of Simon's journey to potential fatherhood, from Australia's sharpest comedian.

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Fri 23–Sun 25 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 9.30pm, Sun 8.30pm VENUE Brisbane Room, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS $30 (f), $28 (c) + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

That's it! Two lineups featuring the best upcoming talent from the Sunshine State, sharing the stage for an hour of stand up, stories and wicked one liners.

16–18 MAR Zack Dyer, Jasmine Fairbairn,

Jack Gramenz, Ashwin Segkar, Stephanie Tisdell 23–25 MAR Rhi Down, Ben Knight, Jacob Lingard, Andy Thompson (pictured), Oliver Twist PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL DATE Fri 16–Sun 18 Mar, Fri 23–Sun 25 Mar TIME Fri + Sat 6.30pm, Sun 5.30pm VENUE Brisbane Room, Brisbane City Hall TICKETS Fri + Sun $22, Sat $25 + transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

"His delivery is so finely tuned, he scores belly laughs each time. A master of timing."

««««« THE AGE

PAGE 51

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT BRISBANE CITY HALL

Mid last year, Simon was told he was going to be a dad.

These acts have only two things in common; where they call home, and that they are funny.

AKMAL

TRANSPARENT BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT SUNPAC

Akmal returns with his funniest show ever in the history of comedy. Paramedics will be on call to transport audience members to hospital as their sides split from laughter.* Akmal is one of Australia's most respected, successful and accomplished comics, displaying an incredible ability to deal with hot topics in a hilarious and slightly offensive way. His new show is no exception. *Please consult your doctor before seeing this show.

Not recommended for people under the age of 18 or over the age of 18, or people with lawyers. NO REFUNDS.

“Random, improvised and hilarious…”

CRIKEY.COM.AU

PAGE 52

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Fri 02 Mar TIME 7.30pm VENUE SunPAC TICKETS $40 (f), $37 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95 SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

SEE P

26

JIMEOIN

THE RIDICULOUS From the ridiculous to the hilarious…

Come and see Jimeoin’s new show as he takes you into the brain of one the world’s best stand-up comedians and masters of observational humour.

“Excels at observational comedy…Funny and real.”

«««« HERALD SUN

PRESENTED BY BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AND ALIST.COM.AU DATE Thu 15 Mar TIME 7.30pm VENUE SunPAC TICKETS $49 (f), $45 (c)

+ transaction fee of $5.95

SEE P

46

BRISBANE COMEDY FESTIVAL AT SUNPAC

SUITABLE FOR AGE 15+ CONTAINS COARSE LANGUAGE

PAGE 53

Courtesy Bus Brisbane Comedy Festival wants to help a brother out in 2018!

A courtesy bus is being run on a loop from Brisbane Powerhouse to Fortitude Valley on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights from 6pm (approximately every 15 mins).

The FREE pick up and drop off point in town is outside the Empire Hotel (cnr Brunswick and Ann St) and at Brisbane Powerhouse. For timetable information go to brisbanecomedyfestival.com.au

Festival Venues BRISBANE POWERHOUSE

Taxi We definitely endorse a cheeky taxi or Uber ride to give you time to enjoy a glass of wine or a bite to eat at Bar Alto or WATT before the show.

The taxi zone is located inside the car park beside the Stores Building.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT CityCat The New Farm Park CityCat Jetty is a short 400m walk from Brisbane Powerhouse.

Bus The 195 and 196 bus services stop at the end of Brunswick Street at Oxlade Drive, on the East side of New Farm Park. The 199 bus stops at Merthyr Road and Hawthorne Street. Both stops are a short walk from Brisbane Powerhouse.

PARKING If you're planning on driving, get here early and give yourself time to find a park! The Brisbane Powerhouse car park has over 100 free car parks but parking around the area can be quite difficult once this fills up. During busy times we open a one way link road that connects to the New Farm Park car park that provides more than 200 additional car spaces. Bicycle racks are located outside the Stores Building and Brisbane Powerhouse.

119 LAMINGTON ST, NEW FARM

PAGE 54

BRISBANE CITY HALL

64 ADELAIDE STREET, BRISBANE CITY PUBLIC TRANSPORT CityCat The closest ferry terminal is North Quay.

SUNPAC

470 MCCULLOUGH STREET, SUNNYBANK PUBLIC TRANSPORT Bus The 155 bus service stops on McCullough Street at the Granadilla Street intersection, and the 123 bus stops on Granadilla Street at the McCullough Street intersection. The 140 and 598 buses stop at Mains Road at Sunnybank near the McCullough Street intersection. All stops are within a 5–15 minute walk away from SunPAC.

Bus There is a major bus interchange underneath King George Square and Queen Street Mall, as well as many bus stops along Adelaide Street.

Train Brisbane City Hall is only a 5–10 minute walk from Central and Roma Street train stations.

PARKING Paid car parking is available at the King George Square car park, located directly underneath King George Square.

Taxi Taxi and drop-off zone is located along the main driveway off McCullough Street, halfway between the Sunnybank Community and Sports Club and SunPAC. Drop off zones are signed.

PARKING SunPAC provides ample parking spaces with an outdoor carpark, as well as an underground carpark that provides direct access via lift into the foyer free of charge. To access the underground carpark, follow the driveway to the front of the Sunnybank Community and Sports Club, and follow the signs to the members car park.

PAGE 55

Host the best party at Brisbane Comedy Festival!

Stand out from the crowd and treat your clients or colleagues to a unique Brisbane Comedy Festival experience. Our tailored corporate entertainment packages include access to a private event space with breathtaking river views, mouth-watering food and beverages along with tickets to some of the most hilarious international and national comedians around.

Only available for the month of March, book now as spaces are limited.

Packages start from only $110 per person. That’s no laughing matter!

ENQUIRE TODAY E events@brisbanepowerhouse.org P 61 7 3358 8620 PAGE 56

Eat, Drink and Be Funny!

THANKS F YOUR SU OR PPORT

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE WATT WATT’s getting roasted for Brisbane Comedy Festival! Enjoy a serving of lamb, chicken or fish for two or more people with a bottle of wine for $99. Platter includes vegetables and condiments, bookings are essential.

W wattbrisbane.com.au T 61 7 3358 5464 BAR ALTO Bar Alto is a modern Italian restaurant located at the Brisbane Powerhouse, nestled on the beautiful banks of the Brisbane River.

W baralto.com.au T 61 7 3358 1063 HA HA BAR Enjoy your drinks under the stars during Brisbane Comedy Festival, with the Ha Ha Bar popping up on the Powerhouse Plaza from 6pm (Thu–Sun), thanks to Bar Alto.

BRISBANE CITY HALL Opening at 5pm Tue-Sun, the Pop Up in King George Square is the best place in town to let your hair down before your Brisbane Comedy Festival show at Brisbane City Hall. Thirst-quenching Mountain Goat beers on ice, delicious food, good tunes – you’ll be set!

Brisbane Comedy Festival bars will also be open inside City Hall an hour before each show.

SUNPAC SUNPAC BAR AND CAFÉ Offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as light snacks before and after the show.

THE TERRACE SunPAC encourages patrons looking for a more substantial meal to visit The Terrace at Sunnybank Community and Sports Club, which is conveniently attached to the building.

W sbru.com.au T 61 7 3323 9600

PAGE 57

How to Book ONLINE brisbanecomedyfestival.com PHONE +61 7 3358 8600 BRISBANE POWERHOUSE BOX OFFICE HOURS Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 12–4pm, 60 min prior to performance start time.

BRISBANE CITY HALL BOX OFFICE HOURS Box Office will be available on site and will open 60 minutes prior to performance start time.

SUNPAC BOX OFFICE HOURS Mon–Fri 10am–5pm, 60 min prior to performance start time.

Week One SHOW

P.

VENUE

TUE 27 FEB

WED 28 FEB

THU 01 MAR

FRI 02 MAR

SAT 03 MAR

10.15pm

10.15pm

SUN 04 MAR

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE AFTER HOURS

39

Turbine Studio

AKMAL

26

Powerhouse Theatre

9.30pm

8.30pm

ANGUS GORDON

21

Graffiti Room

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

CAMERON JAMES

32

Rooftop Terrace

8.15pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

7.15pm

CONVINCE ME!

38

Turbine Platform

DAMIEN POWER

36

Visy Theatre

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

7.30pm

JOE SHAFFER

35

Graffiti Room

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

GEN FRICKER

17

Rooftop Terrace

9.45pm

9.45pm

8.45pm

KNOCKOFF

40

Turbine Platform

6pm

LIVESPARK

40

Turbine Platform

LUKE HEGGIE

14

Turbine Studio

MATT OKINE

07

Powerhouse Theatre

MEL BUTTLE

18

Visy Theatre

PETER HELLIAR

20

Powerhouse Theatre

QUEENSLAND THEATRESPORTS™ CHAMPIONSHIPS

39

Turbine Platform

SAM CAMPBELL

31

Rooftop Terrace

6.45pm

6.45pm

THE STEVENSON EXPERIENCE

26

Turbine Studio

7.15pm

7.15pm

52

SunPAC

5.30pm

8.45pm

3.30pm 8.45pm

7pm

8.45pm

7pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

7pm

7.45pm

7.45pm

6.45pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

6pm

6pm

6pm

5pm

7.45pm

7.45pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

5.45pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

SUNPAC AKMAL

7.30pm

PAGE 58

Week Two SHOW

P.

VENUE

TUE 06 MAR

WED 07 MAR

THU 08 MAR

FRI 09 MAR

SAT 10 MAR

SUN 11 MAR

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE AFTER HOURS

39

Turbine Studio

10.15pm

10.15pm

ANGELLA DRAVID AND MELANIE BRACEWELL

31

Rooftop Terrace

9.45pm

9.45pm

8.45pm

BECKY LUCAS

10

Turbine Studio

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

BRISBURNED

34

Graffiti Room

5.45pm

CLASS CLOWNS

38

Visy Theatre

3pm

CONVINCE ME!

38

Turbine Platform

COOL STORY BRO

32

Rooftop Terrace

DANIEL SLOSS

30

Visy Theatre

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

7.30pm

DANIELLE WALKER

24

Graffiti Room

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

7pm

7pm

4.15pm + 7.45pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

5.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

5.30pm 5.15pm

DAVE HUGHES

16

Powerhouse Theatre

DAVID SMIEDT

14

Rooftop Terrace

JAMES SMITH

29

Powerhouse Theatre

JEFF GREEN

06

Turbine Studio

JUDE PERL

35

Turbine Studio

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

GUY MONTGOMERY

18

Rooftop Terrace

8.15pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

HEATH FRANKLIN’S CHOPPER

13

Powerhouse Theatre

KNOCKOFF

40

Turbine Platform

LAWRENCE MOONEY

11

Powerhouse Theatre

LEHMO

27

Visy Theatre

LIVESPARK

40

Turbine Platform

NEEL KOLHATKAR

06

Powerhouse Theatre

NICK CODY

25

Visy Theatre

PAULY FENECH

15

Powerhouse Theatre

QUEENSLAND THEATRESPORTS™ CHAMPIONSHIPS

39

Turbine Platform

TIM HEWITT

33

Graffiti Room

6.45pm

6.45pm

8.45pm

7pm 6pm 6pm

5pm

5.30pm

4.30pm

3.30pm 9.30pm 7pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

7.45pm

7.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

6pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

PAGE 59

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

Week Three SHOW

P.

VENUE

TUE 13 MAR

WED 14 MAR

THU 15 MAR

FRI 16 MAR

SAT 17 MAR

10.15pm

10.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

SUN 18 MAR

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE AFTER HOURS

39

Turbine Studio

ALEX WARD

36

Graffiti Room

BRISBURNED

34

Graffiti Room

CLASS CLOWNS

38

Visy Theatre

CONVINCE ME!

38

Turbine Platform

COOL STORY BRO

32

Rooftop Terrace

DAVE THORNTON

13

Visy Theatre

DILRUK JAYASINHA

21

Rooftop Terrace

JOEL CREASEY

19

Powerhouse Theatre

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

5.45pm 2pm

3pm 5.30pm 5.15pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

6pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

5.45pm

9.30pm

9.30pm

8.30pm

GILLIAN COSGRIFF

33

Turbine Studio

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

HARLEY BREEN

22

Turbine Studio

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

KNOCKOFF

40

Turbine Platform

LIVESPARK

40

Turbine Platform

MATT STEWART

24

Graffiti Room

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

NAZEEM HUSSAIN

12

Powerhouse Theatre

7.45pm

7.45pm

QUEENSLAND THEATRESPORTS™ CHAMPIONSHIPS

39

Turbine Platform

7.45pm

7.45pm

QUEERSTORIES

37

Powerhouse Theatre

SHAYNE HUNTER

17

TOMMY LITTLE

09

ZOË COOMBS MARR

27

6pm 3.30pm 8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

6pm

Rooftop Terrace Visy Theatre

8.30pm

9.45pm

9.45pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

7.15pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

9.30pm

9.30pm

8.30pm

Powerhouse Theatre

8.45pm

4.15pm

Rooftop Terrace

BRISBANE CITY HALL ANIMATED!

48

Brisbane Room

CAL WILSON

47

Ithaca Auditorium

7pm

7pm

7pm

6.15pm

6.15pm

5.15pm

CELIA PACQUOLA

45

Ithaca Auditorium

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

7.45pm

7.45pm

6.45pm

DUSTY RICH

45

Brisbane Room

7.15pm

8pm

8pm

JIMEOIN

46

Main Auditorium

7pm

7pm

8.45pm

LIVE AND LOCAL

51

Brisbane Room

6.30pm

6.30pm

5.30pm

WIL ANDERSON

44

Main Auditorium

8.50pm

8.50pm

6pm

YADA YADA YADA

49

Ithaca Auditorium

9.15pm

9.15pm

53

SunPAC

SUNPAC JIMEOIN

7.30pm

PAGE 60

Week Four SHOW

P.

VENUE

TUE 20 MAR

WED 21 MAR

THU 22 MAR

FRI 23 MAR

SAT 24 MAR

10.15pm

10.15pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

SUN 25 MAR

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE AFTER HOURS

39

Turbine Studio

BRISBURNED

34

Graffiti Room

CAM KNIGHT

23

Turbine Studio

CONVINCE ME!

38

Visy Theatre

COOL STORY BRO

32

Rooftop Terrace

DEANNE SMITH

09

Rooftop Terrace

DEMI LARDNER

23

Rooftop Terrace

DES BISHOP

10

Visy Theatre

IVAN ARISTEGUIETA

34

Visy Theatre

KNOCKOFF

40

Turbine Platform

LIVESPARK

40

Turbine Platform

QUEENSLAND THEATRESPORTS™ CHAMPIONSHIPS

39

Turbine Platform

RAMA NICHOLAS

22

Graffiti Room

RICH HALL

04

Powerhouse Theatre

ROSE CALLAGHAN

33

Turbine Studio

SAM SIMMONS

08

Powerhouse Theatre

SAM TAUNTON

24

Graffiti Room

STEPHEN K AMOS

05

THE TRAVELLING SISTERS

5.45pm 8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm 5.30pm

5.15pm 6.45pm

8.30pm

6.45pm

6.45pm

5.45pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

7.15pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

6pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

7.30pm

6pm 3.30pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

7.45pm

7.45pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

8.45pm 7.15pm

7.15pm

7.15pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

9.30pm

9.30pm

8.30pm

8.45pm

8.45pm

7.45pm

Powerhouse Theatre

7.45pm

7.45pm

6.45pm

28

Turbine Studio

7.15pm

7.15pm

6.15pm

TOM WALKER

28

Rooftop Terrace

8.15pm

9.45pm

9.45pm

8.45pm

URZILA CARLSON

03

Powerhouse Theatre

7pm

6pm

6pm

7pm

7pm

7pm

7.15pm

8pm

8pm

8.15pm

8.15pm

BRISBANE CITY HALL FIONA O’LOUGHLIN

43

Ithaca Auditorium

JACQUES BARRETT

47

Brisbane Room

JIM GAFFIGAN

41

Main Auditorium

7pm

7pm

LIVE AND LOCAL

51

Brisbane Room

6.30pm

6.30pm

5.30pm

SIMON TAYLOR

51

Brisbane Room

9.30pm

9.30pm

8.30pm

THE NAKED MAGICIANS

50

Ithaca Auditorium

8.30pm

8.30pm

8.30pm

7.30pm

TOM GLEESON

42

Main Auditorium

8.50pm

8.50pm

8.50pm

7pm

8.30pm

All shows run for approximately 50–60 mins, unless otherwise indicated.

The information in this guide was correct at the time of printing. For any updates please visit brisbanecomedyfestival.com PAGE 61

7pm

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