It’s almost that time of year when Melbourne gets funnier. And to that end, this year the Hard Knock Knocks comedy school is producing 14 shows: The Best of Hard Knock Knocks, Dark Comedy Special, and Punter’s Politics with Punter Konrad.
The Best of: A celebration of the comedy community
Since 2018, the Hard Knock Knocks Comedy School has been producing The Best of Hard Knock Knocks at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. This showcase highlights the funniest alumni from the comedy school’s 100 plus stand-up comedy courses. The standout performers from the Hard Knock Knocks’ Australia-wide comedy courses are paid to perform, demonstrating the school’s commitment to creating professional opportunities for new and emerging comedians.
Adding to the excitement, some of the Hard Knock Knocks guest celebrity comedians will be dropping in to surprise audiences with their sets. Regular guest coaches at the Hard Knock Knocks have included comedy legends like Jeff Green, Lehmo, and Ben Killick, so audiences can expect an evening filled with laughter and star power.
The Hard Knock Knocks’ reputation for producing top-tier comedic talent is further solidified by its success in Raw Comedy, Australia’s biggest open mic competition. To date, the Hard Knock Knocks have had six graduates beat thousands to make it into the National Raw Comedy Comedy National Final. It’s highly likely that at least one graduate will be represented in the 2025 Raw Comedy final, continuing the school’s strong track record in nurturing festival-ready talent.
The ‘naughty’ favourite expands: Dark Comedy Special
One of the most talked-about shows at last year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival, the Dark Comedy Special, is back. A response to the ‘you can’t say anything in comedy anymore’ myth, the Dark Comedy Special’s popularity has soared over the years, and due to overwhelming demand, this year’s festival will feature an expanded run of eight shows. Audiences can expect bold, boundary-pushing content from some of Australia’s darkest comedians, that tackles taboo topics with razor-sharp wit and fearless honesty. This show is perfect for those who enjoy comedy that dares to explore life’s darker corners while still delivering gut-busting laughter. You can even pick up an official T-shirt from Redbubble, ahead of the show!
A Debut Worth Watching: Punter’s Politics
Rounding out the Hard Knock Knocks lineup is Punter’s Politics with Punter Konrad, the highly anticipated debut show from political commentator and social media celebrity, Punter Konrad. Known for his satirical Instagram and TikTok Reels covering corporate greed, government inaction, political self serving, as well as his deep-diving podcast, Punter Konrad’s four shows at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival will offer a unique blend of comedy and political insight. His ‘Policy Over Party’ mantra will ensure that no one political party is immune. A fresh perspective on the political landscape, infused with humour and irreverence, the Punter’s Politics with Punter Konrad show will likely become one of the standout acts of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
So, whether you’re a fan of emerging comedians, dark humour, or sharp political satire, the comedy shows produced by Hard Knock Knocks have something for everyone. With 14 show times to choose from, and easy parking in South Melbourne, the Hard Knock Knocks’ produced shows are a good choice for this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival.