8 shows to see at the 2017 NZ International Comedy Festival

Some of the world’s best-loved comedians are coming for Kiwi laughs this month, as the 2017 NZ International Comedy Festival 2017 powered by Flick Electric Co gets underway.

Splitting its schedule between Auckland and Wellington, the renowned festival returns with another packed lineup of guaranteed lols.

Here, we round up eight shows you don’t want to miss when the comedy festival takes place between 27 April and 21 May.

Book tickets for all shows here.

Ed Byrne – Outside Looking In
SKYCITY Theatre, Bruce Mason Centre

The Irish legend returns with a brand new show to celebrate his 20-year love affair with Kiwi audiences. To his own admission, Ed has spent his adult life on the outside, observing the world within and, naturally, he’s got some things to say about it.

The Big Show 2017
Rangatira at Q Theatre

Four world-class comedians packed in to one big, two-hour show. Commonly considered to be the place to see the next rising comics, this year’s no exception with UK faves Ed Gamble, Adam Hess and Lou Sanders, alongside Scottish star Iain Stirling.

Comedy All Stars at the BMC Comedy Club
Bruce Mason Centre

The BMC Comedy Club is back with another stellar lineup for 2017, featuring: Gordon Southern, Adam Hess, Ben Hurley, Hal Cruttenden, Rhys Mathewson, Chris Martin, Markus Birdman, Rich Wilson and Paul Douglas. Need we say more?

Flick Electric Co. Comedy Gala
ASB Theatre

Hosted by Urzila Carlson, the Comedy Gala gives fans a taste of the hilariousness that will follow at this year’s festival. Featuring favourites like Ed Byrne, Aunty Donna, Zoe Lyons and more. Proceeds from the show will be invested by the NZ Comedy Trust into the future development of the comedy industry.

Paco Erhard – 5-Step Guide to Being German
Herald Theatre

Ready for a lesson in how to be German? It’s the schooling you never thought you needed as Paco delivers the first ever stand-up show to hold a mirror up to Modern Germany. Hard-hitting and hilarious, it’s no surprise this comic has already been hailed as one of the best cultural comedians in the world.

The Bitches’ Box – Sons of a Bitch
Herald Theatre

Could this be New Zealand’s answer to bridging the urban/rural divide? Probably not. But it’s fun to watch them try. Leaving the safety of the woodsheds and venturing into the big city, this fast-paced, multi-character antics

Covert Improv Night
Herald Theatre

Starring the Covert Players, this is a show dedicated to the highest levels of improvised mayhem. Every night may be different but you can guarantee whatever happens, you’ll experience some edge of your seat lols.

The Improv Bandits – I Wasn’t Expecting That
Herald Theatre

Their 20 years in the comedy ring doesn’t go unnoticed as The Improv Bandits bring a brand new show to New Zealand audiences in 2017. The hometown heroes are a guaranteed good night at at the Herald Theatre.

For tickets to these comedy shows, head to Ticketmaster.co.nz now.

2017 NZ International Comedy Festival powered by Flick Electric Co. from 27 April – 21 May.