They say laughter is the best medicine, and with the impending winter blues approaching a tad faster than we’d like we’re all ready for a big dose of funny. Thankfully the Perth Comedy Festival is back for another year, bringing us all the very best side-splitting, drink-spitting jokes going around.
Not sure where to go and who to see? Here’s just a handful of favourites.
The Nasty Show
Regal Theatre, 3-4 May
Up for something super offensive? This is just what the doctor ordered. Presented by Perth’s own Jez Watts and Glenn Grimwood (who will also each be doing solo shows), The Nasty Show is a smutty hotpot overflowing with the filthiest of jokes, and the perfect opportunity to get a little drunk and rowdy. This one is sure to sell out, so get in quick.
The War On The F*#king Election 2019
Astor Theatre, 27 April
With the Federal Election coming up, it’s the perfect time for a good satirical dig at Australia’s screwy state of political affairs. Join The Chaser’s Charles Firth and The Shovel’s James Schloeffel as they recreate the drama of election night, sans boring speeches.
Wins All The Awards
Comedy Lounge, 3-4 May
Making his Perth debut, Canada’s Mark Forward brings us a show filled with everything designed to help him win all the awards. Covering death, bees, puppets, more death, and cows in heaven (who are dead), it’s a weird and wacky ride that’s not to be missed.
Are You Serious?
Regal Theatre, 11 May
Seems politics is a hot topic at this year’s festival, and comedy veteran Steve Hughes is well on board. His new show Are You Serious? has received rave reviews and takes a hilarious look at the current craziness that is world politics. Not one for the easily offended.
Harmful If Swallowed
Astor Theatre, 10 May
After his comedy clip about WhatsApp groups went viral, receiving around 16 million views, Dr Jason Leong took 2018 by storm; selling out solo shows at both the Melbourne and Sydney International Comedy Festivals. He’s now en route to Perth with new, equally sharp material that’s bound to have you in stitches.
Giantess
Astor Theatre, 3-4 May
After being abducted by a troll, a girl must realise her destiny… Created by multi-award winning Aussie comedian Cassie Workman, Giantess is a story of self-acceptance told through comedy, music, storytelling and illustration, and explores the topic of coming to terms with a gender identity that doesn’t match your body.
Halal? Is It Meat You’re Looking For?
Comedy Lounge, 3 May
Having sold out his 2019 FRINGEWORLD show here in Perth, Umar Azad is back with his hilariously high-energy show about migrating to Australia as a child, and how he’s had to adopt different personas in order to survive. Join him as he lifts the veil of secrecy on trying to be the best damn bogan Muslim he can be, all without his Pakistani mother finding out.
The World Is Amazing And Everyone’s A Winner
Astor Theatre, 10 May
Taking a hard look at society’s shortcomings—from the big questions in life to the petty grievances of day-to-day existence—Daniel Townes’ invites us to relish in 16 years of comedic experience with his new show, The World Is Amazing And Everyone’s A Winner. It’s dry, intelligent, and brilliantly relatable.
Nice People Nice Things Nice Situations
State Theatre Centre, 4 May
Aussie stand-up Rhys Nicolson has had plenty of success on stages around the world, and now it’s our turn. Delivering fast-paced comedy that almost always crosses a line or two, Nice People Nice Things Nice Situations is sure to deliver the goods when it comes to blatantly funny satire and commentary on things about life.
The Perth Comedy Festival kicks off on Monday 22 April and runs until 19 May. Tickets are now available here.
Looking for more things to do in Perth? Here you go.
Image credit: Cam Campbell