The Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF) has kicked off the excitement for its 2025 season with a highly anticipated flash sale, set to offer tickets for just $25 across more than 300 shows. This remarkable deal, scheduled from February 4 to February 5, allows comedy fans to snag tickets at nearly $10 less than the usual average price of $35. The festival has made headlines for its diverse lineup, showcasing both local talent and international comedic heavyweights, solidifying its status as one of the world's largest comedy festivals, alongside the renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Just for Laughs.
The festival, which attracts over 770,000 attendees each year, spans multiple venues with the primary site being the iconic Melbourne Town Hall. According to the festival's announcement, "The flash sale marks significant discount on standard pricing," enabling audiences to experience stand-up, cabaret, and theatrical performances from household names and fresh faces alike.
International guests scheduled to dazzle audiences include legends such as Paul Foot from the UK and Ruby Wax from the USA, alongside performances from Anirban Dasgupta of India and Mel Bracewell from New Zealand. The Australian lineup boasts stars such as Joel Creasey and Nazeem Hussain. The MICF aims to "support, discover and develop comedic talent across genres and backgrounds," making the festival not only a source of entertainment but also a pillar of cultural development.
Meanwhile, on February 7, the Guildford Hotel transforms its space for one night only to bring Perth residents closer to the excitement of the Fringe Festival. The evening begins at 7 PM with "An Englishman, An Englishman... and An Englishman," featuring British comedians John Pinno, Gareth Knight, and Kelsey De Almeida who promise to deliver sharp observations and absurd tales with humor as dry as the most classic gin martini. This trio is well-prepared to provide the perfect kickoff to the comedy night.
At 8 PM, the laughter continues with the "Fringe Comedy Showcase: Suburban Edition," hosted by the irrepressible Chris Franklin. Audiences can anticipate seeing some of the festival’s best comedians curated for this special local edition. "Why venture far when top-tier entertainment awaits just around the corner?" the hotel encourages, emphasizing the convenience of quality comedy right at home.
To top it all off, the Guildford Hotel will feature the "Darkest Comedy Hour" at 9 PM, exploring the edgiest realms of stand-up comedy. This original best-seller at Fringe World showcases stellar talent, delivering laughs intense enough to make one want to seek solace the following morning.
Not to be missed either, from February 14 to March 2, Marie’s Crisis, the iconic New York piano bar, will make its grand entrance to Melbourne for six exclusive nights. Attendees can expect spontaneous, unplugged performances where the atmosphere is as much about participation as it is about entertainment. No set lists or defined stages—just the crowd, the piano, and the thrill of classic show tunes from musicals like "Les Mis" and "Wicked." Adam Tilford from Marie's Crisis describes these evenings as, "riotous and rambunctious and welcoming all ages."
The allure of Marie's Crisis lies not only in the infectious singing and atmosphere but also its storied history serving as a haven for the LGBTQIA+ community. It's where everyone can join together under the banner of music and laughter, enjoying what has become a symbol of acceptance and joy.
Tickets for all events can be reserved now, though early action is advised as demand is expected to be high. Visitors are encouraged to book their seats quickly, especially for Marie’s Crisis pop-up nights which sold out fast the previous year.
Overall, these events highlight the vibrant and diverse comedy scene in Australia. From the grand scale of the MICF to the intimate settings at The Guildford Hotel and the communal spirit of Marie’s Crisis, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your tickets, gather your friends, and experience the best of Australian comedy this season!