British comedian Jimmy Carr hasn’t minced his words when he told interviewer Chris Williamson that stand-up comedy should be taught in schools AND that it’s more relevant than music! Carr emphasised that stand-up comedy isn’t just about making people laugh, but rather it is a powerful tool for developing important life skills. “Think about what it’s about. It’s about verbal …
Photo: Eddie PerfectPhoto Credit: Melbourne International Comedy Festival / Jim Lee Photo So how do you get to perform at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF) in 2026? Is it invite only? Do you need to know the mayor? Is a bribe required? The good news for Australians and New Zealanders is that anyone can perform – without a bribe. …
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, …
You’re not funny. There, I said it. Sure you love watching stand-up comedy, and you think you’ve written some awesome jokes, but really you’re not funny. The good news is that stand-up comedy can be learnt. That’s right. You don’t have to be born funny. Even Jimmy Carr thinks so! But first things first, let’s figure out the reasons why …
If you’re a fresh open mic comedian, perhaps one’s that just graduated from the Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School, then creating an open mic comedy night is one of the best ways to get guaranteed and intense stage time. You can also trade stage time with other comedy room runners to get a spot on their night. And if you’re …
Originally from China, Amy Yang might be new to stand-up comedy—but she’s definitely not the shy type. Living in Melbourne with her girlfriend and partner, Amy brought boldness, honesty, and a cheeky charm to the Hard Knock Knocks stage. Despite never having done stand-up before, she tackled the mic with confidence and a fresh perspective. Safe to say, Amy’s no …
The Blak Holes duo Isaac Compton and Dane Simpson pull in rapid fire laughs at their hit Melbourne International Comedy Festival performance. Their super nova status as comedians confirmed with their look into dating, fame, family, life, love, money and the world of entertainment & social media for men in Australia, especially Indigenous men. Compton’s guitar-backed rendition of Jolene, about …
(Photo above: Morry Morgan, Bradford Oakes and Punter Konrad) What started as satirical video posts on social media has turned into packed shows at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF). And in the process, Punter’s Politics’ founder, Konrad, has done what few in MICF history have ever done – sold out their debut performance. The four shows, titled ‘Punter’s Politics’, …
The live performance industry is getting disrupted by a technology. And this tech is called Gigme! Mobile first, and available on Apple ioS and Android, Gigme helps live performers get paid. It removes the hassle of chasing invoices, negotiating contracts, and managing payments. With an automated escrow system, performers can lock in gigs with confidence and get paid on time—every …
