If there’s one thing that’s been great about lockdown, it’s that we’re all accustomed to watching shows on platforms other than free-to-air network TV. And this has opened up a whole world of alternative comedy, made by Aussies for Aussies. So what are the best Australian comedy web series to get us through lockdown – or awful summer programming on …
Episode 34 of This Week in Comedy welcomes veteran comedian Lehmo for a wide-ranging conversation that moves from world records and television history to strange trivia, Australian comedy and everyday attempts to make strangers laugh. Lehmo begins by recalling his decade as a chartered accountant and joking that creative accounting allowed the years 1991 to 1997 to somehow equal ten. …
One of Melbourne’s most popular Singer Celebrant MCs, Veronica Lees-Amato (or “V”, as her comedy moniker) might be new to stand-up—but she’s no stranger to the stage. With a long and vibrant career entertaining crowds across all kinds of events, she brought her signature energy and charisma to the Hard Knock Knocks stage Respected, lively, and never short on sparkle, …
One of the most common questions asked by Hard Knock Knocks comedy students is “How much do stand-up comedians make?” It’s a valid question, but unfortunately one that is hard to answer. Firstly, unlike other jobs within The Arts, the ‘business of comedy‘ is not regulated by an Award rate. While the Australian Government’s Fair Work Ombudsman’s ‘Pay Guide – …
After 10 years, and well over 800 graduates, we are confident that there are three types of people who do the Hard Knock Knocks Comedy Course: keynote speakers, bucket list tickers, and comedians of the future. So which one are you? Keynote speakers Fear drives one of the most common types of stand-up comedy student. Whether it’s an upcoming ‘best …
South African born Charné performed her debut stand-up comedy performance at the Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School in February, and as you can see she nailed it. Witty, sassy with humility to self criticise, Charné quickly won over the audience, becoming a favourite for the night. Charné perfomed alongside comedy greats, Bradford Oakes and Dave O’Neil, as well as returning …
Australia’s comedy related podcast scene is full of sharp satire, backstage stories, chaotic banter and comedians making each other laugh. Here are ten local shows worth checking out, in alphabetical order. 1. Aunty Donna Podcast Hosts: Mark Samual Bonanno, Broden Kelly and Zachary RuaneIf you like comedy that feels like it has escaped from a very silly theatre rehearsal, this …
(Updated June 16, 2026) Not all rooms are ‘open mic’. Many are curated, meaning you need to have your name ‘on the bill’ days or even weeks before getting up. So reach out (probably via Facebook) before popping down to the following comedy rooms and expecting to perform your ‘tight five‘. Or better still, create your own open mic comedy …
Episode 32 of This Week in Comedy brings hosts Lily Geddes and Morry Morgan together with guest Tony Rogers for a lively conversation about Australian comedy, filmmaking and the strange paths that turn small ideas into enduring screen projects. Rogers discusses How to Talk Australians: The Movie, explaining how the project grew from an earlier pilot and web series set …
