The full offering of Brisbane Comedy Festival’s 2025 event is here, for its sweet 16th celebrations.
Brisbane Comedy Festival will take over Brisbane Powerhouse, The Tivoli, Fortitude Music Hall, and The Princess Theatre, spreading a month’s worth of non-stop cackles across the city for its biggest, boldest and funniest instalment yet.
There are more than 130 shows this year, with everything from sharp stand-up and witty storytelling, to sketch and musical comedy, and clowning.
“The rise of the clown for me brings an extra layer of theatricality and commitment to silliness that I know our audience will really enjoy,” Festival Director Phoebe Meredith says. “As always, we have a few viral sensations making the leap from your phone screen to the stage, international icons, people you see on the telly and hear on the radio, as well as a pack of up-and-comers ready to make you lol. No matter your taste in comedy, there’s something for everyone.”
In the realm of clowning and silliness is Elf Lyons, in the first-ever comedy show performed by a horse, Furiozo with a punk-rock comedy, and Garry Starr performing every classic Penguin novel ever written.
Festival favourite Aboriginal Comedy Allstars returns, featuring premier First Nations funny folks Andy Saunders, Elaine Crombie, Janty Blair, Jay Wymarra, Kevin Kropinyeri and Sean Choolburra. Plus, there’ll be Brisbane locals Matt Okine, Ben Hunter, and social media sensation Anika Nandaula, and comedy rising star Jordan Barr.
Fady Kassab will dish on his ‘Fady Issues’, and Stuart Daulman presents a treasure trove of new material and timeless classics. Plus there’s the musical comedy duo of The Stevenson Experience, and Harry Jun’s ‘Friendship Safari’.
‘Queerstories’ will make its anticipated return to Brisbane Comedy Festival. . . And some of the country’s top female comedians will grace the stage for a night of LOLs at ‘Frocking Hilarious!’, hosted by Claire Hooper. . . Supporting ActionAid’s mission for women’s rights worldwide. Laughter with purpose, anyone?
For those who like to stay up a little later, ‘After Hours’ is where your favourite comedians go to get loose, try new material, and bring back some old favourites. Anything can happen.
Heaps of shows from previous line-up drops have already sold out, including the Festival’s opening gala at Fortitude Music Hall, Kiwi legend Rhys Darby’s new show, Aunty Donna’s Broden Kelly, and Wankernomics.
Tickets are on sale now.
Brisbane Comedy Festival 2025 is on from 23 April-25 May.
