The newcomers you won’t want to miss at this year’s Brisbane Comedy Festival
Along with many familiar names, Brisbane Comedy Festival has scored a stack of fresh-faced newcomers this year, who are taking the stage with debut sets, new gags and hot takes. We got the chance to chat with festival director Phoebe Meredith on the top shows from up-and-comers to catch this year for some much-needed laughter. Here’s her hit list …
Alexandra Husdon, Making Lemonade, May 23–26
The award-winning newcomer joins Brisbane Comedy Festival with her debut comedy show. Alexandra is a strong proponent for making lemonade out of life’s lemons, and this show is no exception. The Ballina-based comedian explores her experiences as a disabled woman – flipping society’s misconceptions back on themselves.
Aiden Wilcox, Stud, May 23–26
Crowned Best Newcomer at last year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Aiden Wilcox is becoming quickly famed for his character comedy – self-described as a musical comedian trapped inside the body of a musical comedian. His latest show, Stud considers the world of masculinity through song and sketch.
Hannah Camilleri, Lolly Bag, May 23–26
Fresh off the back of Edinburgh Fringe, Adelaide Fringe and a season at London’s Soho Theatre, Hannah Camilleri’s Lolly Bag is finally coming to Brisbane. The sketch lives up to its namesake, described as being sweet, abundant and unpredictable. Embark on this alternative comedic journey that spans Hannah’s beloved characters from a mechanic to a cowboy.
Charlie Lewin, Cockatiel, May 16–19
This hilarious and heartfelt show reflects on Charlie’s experiences growing up as a queer kid in Melbourne from Catholic school to Grindr. Charlie has gained a reputation in Australian comedy for his podcast POPGAYS and work as The Project’s producer. Described as both genre and gender-bending, Cockatiel delves into the smart and side-splitting life of an unreformed drama kid.
Andy Balloch, Am I the Drama?, May 23–26
With a clutch of awards under his belt from Melbourne Fringe, Andy Balloch’s show bravely asks “Am I the drama?” as it explores the world of this – self-described – unhinged homosexual. Compared by Andy to a new ride at Movie World , this show is packed with chaos, glitter crocs and clingy Nazis.
Emma Zammit, Good Grief, May 11–12
Good Grief explores even the darkest of topics with warmth and wit as Emma reflects on her experience with grief. The show explores its many stages, including the unspoken ‘lasagna drop-offs’, the inevitable weight gain and your shortened emotional fuse. Emma rawly speaks to this unique but universal time in a way that feels like a warm hug.
Chris Martin and Taylor Edwards, Date Night, May 25–26
This couples-only sketch show is asking you to shave your legs, wash your hair and brush your teeth – because it’s date night. Chris Martin and Taylor Edwards – who also happen to be a couple – believe there’s no greater aphrodisiac than some sketch comedy. Brace for laughs at this funny foreplay where the duo riff on the wacky and wonderful world of dating.
This article was created in partnership with our friends at Brisbane Powerhouse.
To find out more about what’s on in Brisbane, head to our Event Guide.
