The New Zealand International Comedy Festival on now
Thursday, 28 April 2016 by Mark Sandiford
It's that time of year again when some of the best comedians
from around the world make their way to Aotearoa. The New Zealand
International Comedy Festival is now in its 23rd
year, and bigger and better than ever! From the 22nd
April to the 15th May, some of the best acts in the
world will be performing right here in the heart of
Auckland.
For over 20 year the festival has showcased New Zealand's rising
talent, helping support not only established Kiwi artists, but
those trying to launch their career in the industry.
RAW Comedy Quest
Starting way back in 1995, the Raw Comedy Quest is the biggest
comedy competition in New Zealand, and this year is the biggest
yet. With $2000 in prize money, the winner can pay the rent for a
few months, but the accolade is worth its weight in gold. The heats
leading up to the final are ten weeks long, with an elimination
process whittling the contenders down to a final ten. With many
previous winners have gone on to become stalwarts of the Auckland
Comedy scene, this is your chance to see the rising stars before
they hit the big time.
The grand final will be held at Q Theatre on Sat 14th
May, and you can book your tickets
here.
Who can you go see?
This year has some old faces and some new ones- all
recognisable! Arj Barker gained a huge following in New
Zealand with his role in Flight of the Conchords. His unique style
of stand-up has given him a cult following around the world, and
his last show can be seen on Netflix.
Tommy
Tiernan is coming back this year after his sold-out 2013 tour.
The Irish comedian is comedy royalty back in his home country,
second in DVD sales only to megastars U2.
From north of the boarder in Ireland Jimeoin returns to Kiwi shores. The Ulsterman
has been living in Australia for decades and is a frequent visitor
to Auckland, bringing with him his unrivalled sense of
observational comedy.
For those of you who like your comedy a bit stronger, Jim
Jefferies is returning with his on the nose blue collar comedy.
Jim is returning fresh off his outstanding FX series Legit, and
also plans on returning to New Zealand in October for nationwide
tour.
Stephen K
Amos is also back this year, with his award winning comedy. A
staple of the British Comedy circuit, Stephen has been at the
forefront of stand-up for 20 years.
And of course, no New Zealand Comedy Festival would be complete
without Rhys
Darby, whose solo show I'm A Fighter Jet is a collection of his
best bits from previous world tours.
Where is it all happening?
This is the really great news; the majority of these comedy
shows are being held a five minute walk from the Kiwi
International hotel!
The heart of the festival is right here on Queen Street in the
Comedy
precinct.
Based around the Auckland Town hall, you'll find dozens of show
at the ABS Theatre, the Cellar on Q theatre (home to four of the
venues of the festival), the Basement Studio, the Concert Chamber,
(lovingly re-named Comedy Chamber during Festival), and of course,
the Comedy Club itself.
So if you're coming to Auckland this month, then you're coming
at the right time! See the
sights during the day, and grab a comedy show at night.
And remember, staying with us at the Kiwi
International, means you're only minutes away from a great
night out! No need to worry about taxis, parking or not having a
drink because you're driving.
Enjoy yourself!