Five acts you don’t want to miss at the Canberra Comedy Festival 2023

Posted on 28 December, 2022

Is there anything better than Canberra in March?

Balloons decorate the sky, the city erupts in light, the West Lawns are transformed into a bustling Noodle Market, (ironically) locals flee the city for the coast for Canberra day and maybe most excitingly, the city prepares to be shaken by a chorus of laughter thanks to the annual Canberra Comedy Festival.

Running from Thursday 16 until Sunday 26 March at various times and venues throughout the city, the annual event is bound to have something to suit everyone’s sense of humour.

Featuring a huge range of comedians, (including returning fan favourites, international acts, up-and-comers and comedy legends) we all know Canberrans love a good laugh—so with that said here are five acts you’d be silly to miss.

The Umbilical Brothers: The Distraction

International comedy phenomenon and dynamic duo David Collins and Shane Dundas make up the Umbilical Brothers and they’re bringing a brand new show promising to be like nothing you’ve ever seen before.

Showcasing a unique blend of physical and vocal comedy, the pair are guaranteed to keep you laughing long after the show is over—perfect  to attend with the whole family or a group of friends.

They’ve performed in over 40 countries, and now we’re lucky enough to have them coming to us. Don’t miss out.

Saturday 25 March, 6:30pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra Theatre | Tickets here.

Sh!t-faced Shakespeare: Romeo and Juliet

If you’re a fan of the classics, (or more specifically), Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this is the show for you!

If you’re new to the story, think star-crossed lovers going against their feuding families’ wishes to be together—what  could be better? How about an entirely serious play featuring an entirely sh!t-faced actor? Rambunctious, interactive and vibrant, with no two shows ever being the same, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Forewarning, best to leave the kids at home for this one as profanity and possible nudity are on the cards.

Thursday 23 until Saturday 25 March 25, 8.30pm | Street One at The Street Theatre | Tickets here.

 Melanie Bracewell: Ooh La La

Winner of the best newcomer award and master of anecdotes, Melanie is bound to win audiences over with her natural stage charisma and goofy observations. You may recognise her from The Cheap Seats, which she co-hosts or from her regular appearances on Have You Been Paying Attention? or maybe you’ve seen her tweets which have been featured on Buzzfeed or the New York Times. Melanie is a powerhouse and is guaranteed to leave you wanting more.

Friday 24 March, 8pm | Manning Clark Hall, Kambri Cultural Centre, The Australian National University | Tickets here.

 Wil Anderson: Wiluminate

Award-winning comedy mega-star Will Anderson is not to be missed as he brings a whole new show for his debut at the Canberra Comedy Festival. Wiluminate promises to deliver as the comedian has over a quarter of a century in the comedy game.

Saturday 25 March, 8.30pm | Canberra Theatre Centre, Canberra Theatre | Tickets here.

 Cal Wilson: Supposably

Like Cal Wilson, do things such as incorrect grammar, loud eaters, and crocs give you the ick? Head along and enjoy Cal turning inescapable annoyances into enjoyment. You may notice Cal from TV favourites Spicks and Specks, Have You Been Paying Attention? and most recently, as the new co-host of The Great Australian Bake Off.

Saturday 25 March, 6.45pm | T2, Kambri Cultural Centre, Australian National University | Tickets here.

Still aren’t convinced? Because we love a name drop, there are so many more acts that are sure to tickle your fancy, including  Nazeem Hussain, Dave Hughes, Nurse Georgie Carroll, Kirsty Webeck, and so many more! And not only are we lucky enough to have a host of the funniest (and coolest) people coming to us, but there is also a new venue with shows being held at the ANU Kambri Precinct in 2023.

Tickets are on sale now so be sure to pick yours up ASAP. You don’t want to miss this.