MICF 2023: Ed Gamble

Ed Gamble's show Electric is quite frankly, electric. 

The UK comedian and popular podcaster has touched down in Australia to commence his first-ever run of live shows in our country. This is hands down one of the funniest shows we've seen at the festival. From the moment Ed walks onto the stage to the heaviest Slipknot song he could find, you will become immersed in the world that he lives in and the wild antics he has been up to these past few years. 

Learn about Ed's journey to get married during a pandemic, and his tragic attempt at throwing a hen's party for two. If you've ever thought about the real reason you were born, or wanted a deeper insight into what it's like to attend a big boy gym, Ed has you covered. 

You'll come to the show to hear more about Ed singing karaoke at home by himself, and you'll stay for the long gag about a chicken. Recommended to those with the maturity of ages 0-6, head down to the Atheneum to find out Ed's true feelings about a hotel buffet breakfast.  

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Athenaeum Theatre Two 

Dates: 11-23 April 

Time: 7.45pm (except sunday shows 6.45pm) 

Tickets: $51.90 

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 03 9650 1500 & at the door

Star of the viral Greeters Guild Troy Hawke has arrived in Melbourne. After great success as the winner of Best Show in Leicester's 2022 Comedy Festival, and amassing over a million followers across his social platforms, the fancy fellow himself from the UK has stopped by to say hello.

In true Troy Hawke fashion, he greets each of his guests on the night at the front door of the venue, offering a firm handshake, a glowing smile and pleasant banter and conversation. Opening the show, Troy acknowledges that whether you have purchased the tickets or come along with a friend, it's likely that you have no idea what's going to happen. He was right. 

In the hour that follows, Troy covers everything from being home-schooled, the dopamine lottery and his personal influence on a pizza shop to incorporate more haute couture. He's a scrabble wizard who showcases his abilities to form a magic number, all the while spouting hilarious conspiracy theories about IKEA that go all the way to the CIA. 

Crowd participation is highly encouraged in this interactive show, so whether you are a fan of the Greeters Guild, or just enjoy a good comedy show, Troy Hawke's Sigmund Troy'd has it all. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): The Toff in Town

Dates: 30th March - 23rd April

Times: 8:30pm, Sundays 7:30pm 

Tickets: $29.50 - $37.50 

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door

Returning for its 26th year for one night only is Upfront - a showcase of female and non-binary comedic talent. Once again in the Main Hall of Town Hall, this year's gala was hosted by the charming Jude Perl, who opened the gala with a song about labels. Starting off the first half of the night was Chris Ryan, whose aspirations to be calm had the audience in stitches. Laura Davis told us stories about being a party killer and how to best run threesomes, while Butchulla comedian Janty Blair made her Upfront debut sharing tales stemming from her country.

Aussie royalty Anne Edmonds made her grand return to comedy this year, after becoming a late-in-life mother. Back to her usual antics onstage, Anne explained to us how her motherhood was all about the power in your backside. One of our faves this comedy festival, Michelle Brasier played an ode to millennials, complete with homages to Y2K and high-waisted jeans. Brit Georgie Carroll shared horror stories from the medical world, based on her experience as a nurse, which was followed up by Chloe Petts relishing in the male privilege she enjoys as a masculine lesbian. 

Latin-American comedian Lara Ricote was a gala highlight for us; with her stories of living as a deaf woman and role-playing with her boyfriend cracking us up. Delivering every line completely deadpan, Sonali Thakker talked about one of her favourite things (herself), including the situations her parents put her in, which the audience all cheered along to as a sign of understanding. Great Australian Bake Off host Claire Hooper was the closer for the night's first half, and brought the show full circle as she brought up her own takes on the topics her gala-mates raised.

After a short intermission, Jude Perl played a song about bullying, which taught us all valuable advice from her grandmother. Up next was self-proclaimed bad bitch He Huang, who drew from her experiences of being the baddest of them all. Triple-threat Rosie Jones tells the audience how she is unapologetically a little prick, and cheekily shares memories from her dating life. The incredibly quick-witted Sara Schaefer couldn't be happier to be in Australia, especially after witnessing American Gen Zers' obsession with our pronunciation of the word 'no', while the legendary Cal Wilson shows us how she became such a mainstay in the local comedy scene. After fronting for the affirmative team in this year's Great Debate, Lizzy Hoo shares her woes of turning 40;  with Sashi Perera soon telling us all about her honeymoon, and the shock of not being her husband's emergency contact. 

When she's not writing for or starring in TV shows, Alex Ward is being recognised (kind of) in public - but not really. Changing up the pace was Alex Hines, performing the chaotic Balinese Cell Block Tango from her show To Schapelle and Back. Have you ever wondered what it's like to run as a Greens candidate and lose? Mandy Nolan does - and she had the audience screaming with a story on unconventional ways to gain voters. Before we know it, the show is nearing its end - but not before Jordan Gray takes to the stage.  As a proud trans woman, Jordan tells us all why she's better than us, and lets us in on a little secret (it's not what you think).

Once again, Upfront has put on a hell of a show, with the perfect mix of both emerging and current talent. With an incredible and inspiring lineup of comics that continue to push the boundaries and challenge stereotypes, it's no wonder that Upfront is one of the comedy festival's main events that we look forward to each year.

Proudly presented by the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, The 33rd Annual Great Debate was an absolute riot - as it is traditionally known to be. 

Self-described by the comedy festival as 'where critical thinking and comic timing collide', it's no wonder that tickets for this show are notoriously difficult to come by, but if you were lucky enough to score one, then you were in for a treat.

This year's topic, 'That We Get The Leaders We Deserve', was on par with some of the previous years' topics including throwbacks 'Is Laughter Better Than Sex?' or last year's 'Should We Cancel Cancel Culture?' Like every year, the Great Debate is a who's who in comedy circles and this year was no exception. 

Political journalist and ABC personality Annabel Crabb had the delight of moderating the debate, doing her very best to keep the comedians in line and on time (the latter not as effectively managed, much to the delight of the audience). 

On the affirmative team arguing that we get the leaders we deserve was team captain Lizzy Hoo, John Safran and Em Rusciano. The negative team, arguing against this principle, was team captain Lewis Hobba, Jordan Gray and James Nokise. 

In an anything-goes debate at the Melbourne Town Hall, there were far too many highlights to list, but some of our favourite moments from the show included: 

• Moderator Annabel Crabb's mid-show texting flex with Penny Wong 
• Jordan Gray's show-stealing moment in the spotlight as she put forward her candidacy to become our next Prime Minister
• Em Rusciano yeeting the time-keeping bell into the audience to continue her passionate 40-minute speech that covered everything from Diamond Creek Primary School to drinking her own piss 
• James Nokise throwing his team captain Lewis Hobba under the bus to make the most solid argument about the leaders they deserve of the entire night
• John Safran being John Safran and proving his points in a way that only John Safran can - shout out to the Ye yarmulkes 
• Lizzy Hoo explaining we get the leaders we deserve, because frankly, we suck 
• Lewis Hobba schooling us on a class of emotional blackmail with a bring your baby to work day 
• Lizzy and Lewis using all of their rebuttal time to roast each other's team mates on a personal level instead of doubling down on their closing arguments 

In what can only be described as organised chaos, the Annual Great Debate is one of our favourite MICF Easter traditions and a great way to spend the Easter Weekend. 

Don't forget to set a reminder for next year and keep an eye on the Melbourne International Comedy Festival's website for more details. 

Local comedy legend Gillian Cosgriff returns to MICF for her first show in three years, after an incredible last few years in theatre. From a former self-confessed pessimist, Gillian explores her recent realisation that she is indeed an optimist, in new show Actually, Good. Drawing on some audience participation throughout the show, Actually, Good is an hour-long celebration of enjoying the little things in life. 

Possibly one of her most interactive shows to date, Gillian explains to us her list of ten likes in life - which she has discussed with friends and anyone else who would listen. Compiling lists from those around her, Actually, Good asks the audience to contribute things that would make their own lists. Writing down each contribution in her fancy book, Gillian has been collecting each show’s top ten likes. From our audience’s additions (such as clean sheets and freshly shaved legs, good coffee, and dancing through Coles), Gillian interweaves musical comedy gold throughout the show. 

Playing songs about driving each other mad during lockdown, to being a millennial and experiencing early onset nostalgia, Gillian had the audience in stitches from start to end. With a good measure of her incredible storytelling thrown in, the show features twists and turns that you’ll never see coming (here’s looking at you, Steve). 

Actually, Good can been seen at the Butterfly Club; in our opinion, the perfect venue for Gillian. For a feel-good (dare we say it, optimistic) show, make sure you catch this one before it’s gone. It’ll have you compiling your own top ten list in no time. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): The Butterfly Club

Dates: March 27 - April 23

Time: 8:30pm Mon-Sun (No show April 5, 12, 19)

Tickets: $28 - $37

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 03 9663 8107 & at the door 

Despite her telling the audience members not to put this in their reviews or pass this along to their friends, Gabbi Bolt has nothing. This couldn’t be further from the truth, with the NSW comedian’s second solo show, Odd Sock, being easily one of our festival highlights. 

Part musical comedy, part standup, Gabbi’s show takes you on a wild ride; from songs about anxiety and keeping hydrated, to dog training gone terribly wrong. Her observational style mixed with the absurd is relatable at best, but still keeps you guessing throughout the hour long show. Trawling through Facebook memories on the hunt for nostalgia had us cringing along with the embarrassed comedian, while her obsession with two Hollywood heartthrobs was met with cheers from the crowded room at the Butterfly Club. 

Gabbi’s knack for storytelling come off as effortless, with the performer having mountains of life experience to share with the crowd (especially when it comes to retail work). Despite her foot pic side hustle not really taking off like she’d hoped, we’re keen to see what the comedy world has in store for Gabbi Bolt. 

For fans of musical comedy and some of the most relatable content you’ll see, catch Gabbi Bolt’s Odd Sock at the Butterfly Club during the comedy festival. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): The Butterfly Club

Dates: 28 March - 23 April (no shows Mondays)

Time: Tue - Sun 7pm

Tickets: $28 - $37

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 03 9663 8107 & at the door

Anne Edmonds' latest comedy show Why Is My Bag All Wet? marks her triumphant return, as her first solo show since 2019. 

Exploring her journey as a late-in-life mother, Anne shares all of her new experiences with her trademark sarcasm and wit. From the moment she enters the stage, the audience are laughing hysterically, which continues unwavering throughout the show. When she's not threatening to deport her partner Lloyd, or thinking about the personalities of her stove top, she's dedicating all of her free time into being a Facebook Marketplace mother. 

The perpetual bag flooder talks about her new-lived experiences of motherhood, as well as her side hustle of perfecting the art of slide-down-the-wall crying. When she's not binge watching reality TV, she's competing in it! You'll come along for the story of a crazy lady overseas, and you'll stay for the tale of an innocent trip to Coles. By the end of the show, the tears rolling down your face will be as wet as her bag. 

If you're in the mood for a good laugh, catch Anne Edmonds' Why Is my Bag All Wet? on Saturdays and Sundays until the 23rd April. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Comedy Theatre

Dates: 1 – 23 Apr, Saturday and & Sundays Only

Time: Time: 4pm

Tickets: $35 - $49

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 1300 11 10 11 & at the door

If you're looking for a night of pure, unadulterated comedy chaos, look no further than Greg Larsen's latest show, Slurp's Up!!

From the moment Greg kicks off and declares that we'll understand the show by the end, you know you're in for a wild ride. But let's be real - you'll have no clue what's going on most of the time, and that's exactly what makes this show so fantastic.

As the self-proclaimed 'bad boy' of comedy, Greg takes us on a journey that's part deranged, part profound, and all hilarious. He'll have you laughing until you cry, and then wondering what just happened. The real standout feature of Slurp's Up!! is the interactive media. From weird visuals to funny videos to live cams of the audience, Greg pulls out all the stops to keep us engaged and entertained.

And if you're looking for some mental health advice, Greg's got you covered - even if his suggestions are a little unconventional. Just be sure to follow them blindly, because you never know where you'll end up. If you're a fan of ads in the middle of your comedy show, or love a good ombudsmen story, come and see the show yourself to find out why he's made the switch to Menulog. 

By the end of the show, you'll find yourself simultaneously asking 'What just happened?' and 'I still don't understand what Slurp's Up means' - but one thing's for sure - you'll be laughing all the way home. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind comedy experience! 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): ACMI - Swinburne Studio

Dates: 30 Mar – 23 Apr (no show Mondays or Tuesday 4 Apr)

Time: 9pm (Sun 8pm)

Tickets: $27 - $34

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door

If you're looking for a fun night out on the town, then look no further than Nath Valvo's new show Hit Machine (A Best Of) After. Celebrating over 12 years on the festival circuit, Nath has compiled all of his favourite bits into an action-packed hour of self-reflection. Nath unashamedly starts each show making the audience comfortable and letting them know, it's not about them - it's about him, it's always about him. 

If you want to hear about whether his recent wedding took out 'Wedding of the Year', or find out why Nath is the way he is - come along to hear about his traumatic 16th birthday party. The show has all the Nath you could ask for and more! From coming to terms with his occupation not being listed on drop-down menus, to dealing with new mums back out on the town; find out why Nath is in awe of his partner's 'normal' family while contemplating moving back home. 

Despite the ’best of’ label attached to the show, most of Nath’s materials is new - ensuring even the longtime fans will be surprised and delighted. 

All in all, Hit Machine (A Best Of) After is an absolute riot. Valvo is a master of his craft, and this show is a true testament to his comedic prowess. So if you're looking for a night of Nath Valvo, and even more Nath Valvo, be sure to grab tickets to this run of ten shows before they sell out - which they will. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Max Watt's

Dates: 30 Mar – 9 Apr (no show Monday)

Time: 7:45pm (Sun 6:45pm)

Tickets: $29 - $37

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door

Michelle Brasier is a triple threat; she can sing, she can act, and she can dance (but she cannot tap dance). 

With numerous awards under her belt for previous shows Reform (2022) and Average Bear (2021), including a nomination for Most Outstanding Show at the 2021 Melbourne International Comedy Festival, it's no surprise that her latest show is a hit, and one of our absolute favourite shows of the entire Comedy Festival. 

Legacy takes you on a journey to find Brasier's namesake after a chance encounter at the Lido Cinemas. It's a story that's both funny and emotive, as Brasier reflects on the choices she's made in her life and the different paths she could have taken. It's like Sliding Doors, but with more laughs. For those who haven't yet discovered her comedic genius, this show is the perfect introduction. 

Part musical, part theatre, and part comedy, you will sit in amazement at the abundance of talent as Brasier talks you through her near-death experience and sings songs about the war of generations. If that's not enough (and it should be), Brasier's labrador Eva, may even make an appearance as part of the show - adding an extra layer of adorableness to an already delightful show. 

Overall, Michelle Brasier's latest show is a must-see for anyone who loves comedy - her ability to form strong connections with the audience is truly special. Catch this proudly 'basic' comedic superstar in action over at the Comedy Republic, on until the 23rd April. 

Tour Dates and Bookings

Gold Coast Laughs – Fri 24 Mar

Canberra Comedy Festival – Sun 26 Mar

Melbourne International Comedy Festival – Thurs 30 Mar to Sun 23 Apr

Sydney Comedy Festival – Wed 26 to Sun 30 Apr

Perth Comedy Festival – Sat 13 May

BOOKINGS - michellebrasier.com

If you're looking for a night of side-splitting laughter, then look no further than Kitty Flanagan's latest comedy show - Kitty Flanagan Live! The best-selling author of 488 Rules for Life and well-known celebrity from Fisk, Utopia and Have You Been Paying Attention? performs her first official hometown shows in Melbourne since moving here in February 2020 (ouch!). 

Flanagan brings her A-game with a knack for turning ordinary everyday topics into hilarious observations that will have you in stitches. From exploring her relationship with shame, to delving into her mum's split personalities Claire and Coco, you'll soon learn that Kitty is the type of person who will offer her assistance to a stranger - even when you don't want it. 

Kitty's ability to discuss real-world issues in a way that is both insightful and hilarious tackles topics including the differences between men and women getting older, wondering if parents ever try to get fired, and a song about the different types of underwear in her life. Her story-telling is top-notch and the honesty that she brings about her own life is both funny and refreshing. 

If you're thinking of venturing out to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, support a local hometown hero. Don't hesitate in buying tickets to see Kitty Flanagan - Live! - even if just to find out what F.W.C stands for. You won't be disappointed. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Athenaeum Theatre

Dates: 29 March - 23 April

Time: 6.45pm Tue-Sat, 5.45pm Sun

Tickets: $54 - $59

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 03 9650 1500 & at the door

Jenny Tian's latest show Picture This, is a delightful blend of stand-up comedy, Microsoft Paint drawings, and three juicy tales of betrayal. Whether you're a die-hard fan who knows her from her TikTok and Instagram fame, or just looking for a fresh comedic voice, Jenny has you covered. 

Come on an illustrated journey to hear about her life to date - from growing up at an all-girls school, to regularly attending citizenship tests. Jenny effortlessly draws on her experiences and connects with her audience through hilarious and unexpected anecdotes supported by personal reflections we can all relate to. 

What sets Picture This apart is how invested the audience becomes with each of the tales about Jenny's life - a self-reflection on a journey to be a better person. If you want to find out which film character she was named after, or why she has a rage that knows no bounds for Vivid Sydney, you'll have to come check it out for yourself. 

It's no surprise that Jenny has sold out shows throughout the festival, and will shortly be upgrading to a larger venue - a testament to the success and quality of her latest show. If you haven't got your tickets, we suggest you get right on it before they are all gone. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Trades Hall - The Meeting Room

Dates: 30 Mar – 23 Apr (no show Wednesdays)

Time: 9pm (Sun 8pm)

Tickets: $22 - $27

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door

Nikki Osborne is the queen of controversy, and also fittingly the host of Just For Laughs - Uncut on Channel Ten. When she's not busy on television, having featured on I’m a Celebrity Get Me Outta Here and Drunk History, she's going viral for her character Bush Barbie. Nikki has brought her latest show Too Far to Australian audiences, and it's definitely not for the faint-hearted. 

In Too Far, Osborne talks about moving interstate, dealing with homeschooling during the pandemic, and trying to fit in with the other mums at a new school. Her humour is bold, unapologetic, and often crass, but that's what makes her so unique. 

One of the highlights of the show is Osborne's willingness to engage with the audience. Her crowd participation is friendly, but it's a reminder that the show is called Too Far for a reason. She's not afraid to push the boundaries, with her jokes often deliberately toeing the line between funny and offensive.

For those who appreciate her boldness and unfiltered approach, it's a real treat. And for those who want to know more about her OnlyFans account - she's not afraid to talk about it.

Nikki Osborne's show is a must-see for fans of controversial comedy; her humour edgy, boundary-pushing and always entertaining. If you're not easily offended, and looking for a good laugh, be sure to check out this show. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Tickets: $30 - $35

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door

We are unashamedly big Ross Noble fans and have been fortunate enough to catch his shows every year of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival over the past few years. 

His latest show Jibber Jabber Jamboree is as wild as ever - a night of spontaneous ideas, oversharing and exploring Ross' deepest and most hilarious thoughts. Self-described as the 'supreme master of stream of conscious freewheeling stand-up', the King of Tangents invites you to his 21st solo stand-up show for an hour of utter nonsense. 

With an elaborate set design featuring a fun jungle theme, be prepared to open your mind and follow Ross into the wilderness - watching him turn a single thought into a series of thoughts that lead to comedy gold. If you like your comedian to tell one joke and then another, this probably isn't the show for you. If you prefer for your comedian to singlehandedly juggle at least three running jokes at the same time, asking the audience for reminders to 'circle back' on queue, this show will be more up to your speed. 

Jibber Jabber Jamboree has a lot of crowd work, and the show could be vastly different on any given night of the week - making it more fun, exciting and real. We were fortunate enough to witness history, a show not even Ross' tour manager will believe, with Ross co-headlining the set with an audience member's mother (well, her ashes to be specific). Ross Noble manages to successfully toe the line of getting cancelled at each of his shows, while simultaneously yelling, 'I'm going to get cancelled for this'. 

If you're interested in hearing Ross' thoughts about Barack Obama's speaking abilities, doing the doo to some spooky tunes, playing 'Guess Who' in today's modern society, and his work as a farrier's assistant, head on down to the Arts Centre for a show you'll never forget. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Arts Centre Melbourne - Playhouse

Dates: 29th March - 23rd April (no shows Monday)

Time: 8:30pm Tuesday-Saturday, 7:30pm Sunday

Tickets: $40 - $49

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 1300 182 183 & at the door

A few things are crystal clear after seeing David O'Doherty's show Tiny Piano Man. 

The first thing is that he's back. He's very happy to be back. He will sing songs about being back, and you will love it. 

Having spent most of his time on a remote island with his parents during the pandemic, you've never seen someone so happy to be back at work - risking getting covid from Melbourne audiences (again) to sing some fun songs on his piano. 

Part-concert, full-hilarity, he's the man you sort of recognise but you're not sure why. When he's not dealing with the Wild West trying to kill him, or caring for drunk Aussies abroad, he's contemplating the life he's lead as a comedian - and trying to work out how to go to the bathroom without his mobile. Whether you're heading to the show to see David O'Doherty or David_O'Doherty, at the end of the day you'll learn, he's David O'Doherty. 

If you want to know why they call him the Tiny Piano Man, you'll have to come check it out for yourself.  

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Forum Melbourne - Upstairs

Dates: Thu 30 Mar – Sun 23 Apr (no show Mondays)

Time: Tue-Sat 7pm, Sun 6pm

Tickets: $32 - $43

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 1300 11 10 11 & at the door

Having seen Sammy J at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for many years, you never know what to expect from each performance. We took our seats at Forum Melbourne, drink in hand, and the first thing we asked ourselves before the show was 'is that Sammy J performing a satirical cover of Natalie Imbruglia's Torn playing over the speakers?' The answer was yes. 

Australia's most prolific satirist Sammy J delivers on his latest show Good Hustle; a show at its roots about exploring what it means to be Australian. Performing without the ABC lawyers present, he's untethered, he's unchained and he just doesn't care. Bringing all of the characters you know and love from his time on the ABC over the last five years, Sammy performs the bits 'you can't show on TV', inviting back everyone's favourite segments and characters. From Government Coach, Playground Politics, National Yoga, bush poet SJ Paterson and the nation of Hookturnistan, a lot of ground is covered in the one hour show. 

While this show contains hilarious songs you'd expect from a Sammy J show, including ditties about changing the date and being cancelled by the left, the focus is well and truly on the characters, as well as the extra special guests from both State and Federal parliaments. Sammy pulls all the strings to show you just what hustling is all about. You'll come along for the joke that cost $2,000 to pull off, but you'll stay for national pride. 

Please be advised that crowd participation in Good Hustle is mandatory. Isn't that right Tony*? 

* Tony was picked out of the crowd on the night of our attendance. Your show may include another unwilling participant, who may or may not be named Tony. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Forum Melbourne - Downstairs

Dates: 30 March - 23 April (Thu- Sun only)

Time: 30 Mar–2 Apr: 6pm Thu – Sat, 5pm Sun 6 - 9 Apr: 6pm Thu, 7 45pm Fri/Sat, 5pm Sun 13– 16 Apr: 6pm Thu, 7 45pm Fri/Sat, 5pm Sun 20 – 24 Apr: 6pm Thu, 7 45pm Fri/Sat, 5pm Sun

Tickets: $30 - $48

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au, 1300 11 10 11 & at the door

Rose Bishop is a feral - and she's proud of it. 

There's no stepping around this realisation - she's not a hippy and she's certainly not a dirtbag - she is comfortably somewhere in-between.

Feral is extremely real; covering all of the aspects of Rose's life to date as a feral, and taking you on a journey through childhood, and high school reunions, through to present-day being a cat mum. If you've ever wondered what it's like raising a horny kangaroo who is also like a brother, Rose has got you covered. Ever tried to pass off as a Melburnian and had a crowd see straight through your facade? It happens to us all. 

When she's not being profiled at the doctor's office, or hanging out with a sheikh on a super-yacht, Rose is living life as her true self. The show constantly begs the question, 'has this ever happened to you?' While the answer is a resounding no, and these situations have never happened to anyone else in the history of the universe, the show is still incredibly relatable and hilarious throughout. 

If you're a fellow feral, you will love this show. If you think you're better than a feral, come along and relish in your superiority. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Chinese Museum - Tea Room

Dates: 30 March - 9 April (no Mondays)

Time: 7:50pm (6:50pm Sundays)

Tickets: $15 - $25

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door

Dr. Jason Leong is in the building and he will see you now. The former medical doctor and one of Malaysia's funniest comedians brings his new show Brain Drain to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. The 'humble' doctor, fresh off the success of his second comedy special on Netflix with Ride With Caution is taking the world by storm and using his time in the spotlight to tell you why he's leaving Malaysia for good. 

Come down to the Greek Centre if you are interested in learning about the Malaysian political environment through the eyes of a comedian. Want to know more about what went down at the Crackhouse Comedy Club? He's got you covered. Or if you want to understand what it's like to change careers from the medical profession to a comedian, this is the show for you. Keeping it fresh with lots of pop references, from jokes about Karens, Disney Princesses and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this show has something for everyone. 

For some, he's Dr. Jason Leong, but if you come along to his show - he might even let you call him Jason. 

Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Venue(s): Greek Centre - Mezz

Dates: 30 March - 23 April (no shows Monday)

Time: Tue-Sat 7.45pm, Sun 6.45pm

Tickets: $26 - $35

Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au & at the door