Comedy Fest program full of funny stuff

THE excitement is palpable around town in the lead up to the Bendigo Comedy Festival, which this year features a wider variety of acts, more venues, a local movie premiere and even a free children’s book showcase.

Tickets to the Gala on Wednesday evening are sold out, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still plenty of opportunities to get involved.

The Festival officially begins on Tuesday night with the showing of Emu Wars at Bendigo Cinemas.

As festival producer and comedian Luke Morris explained, Emu Wars, the event’s first-ever featured film, is based on a true story, told in a surreal Australian way.

“It’s a really good high-quality movie filled with very recognisable Victorian comedians,” he said. “It’s probably got an extremely niche market, but gosh it’s good!

“If you like Australian humour and you like Australian history, check it out.”

The film’s directors Jay Morrissey and Lisa Fineberg will be special guests on the night.

Parents and their kids might also be interested in a free show at Bendigo Library on Friday 18 October, with the award-winning comedian, actor and writer Damian Callinan presenting his children’s book – Weird School.

The show is billed as fun, interactive, funny hour, where Callinan touches on his writing process and ideas for his next title.

Looking closer to home, you can’t go past the Local Legends Comedy Showcase on the evening of Saturday 19 October, featuring Ash Greblo, Patti Fawcett, Dane Knowles, Poppa, Jim Hallawell, Bess Patterson, Josh Wesley, Mikey Dynon and Josh Martin.

Mr Morris described the showcase as an opportunity for the local comedy community to shine.

“Some of them have been gigging for ten-plus years, so they’ve got great material and they’ve had a lot of practice. They’re very talented, but they don’t often get opportunities outside of events like this,” he said.

To check which shows still have seats available, go to bendigocomedyfestival.com.au/festival-2024. Purchase tickets to three or more separate shows to receive a 20 per cent discount at checkout.