Laughter: it’s what separates us from the animals. Well, that and the ability to comprehend our own mortality, but that’s hardly the best way to open a story about a comedy festival. LOL! We’re all going to die!
So ignore that.
Just shy of 30 years old, this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival will be the biggest in its history, with more than 550 shows across 145 venues. Of course there’s no guarantee that all of them will be funny, which is why we’ve trawled through the lineup to bring you our hand-picked recommendations, from big names to intriguing newcomers. Check out our top 12 picks of the festival.
Honourable mentions go to MICF staples including The Gala, RAW Comedy, The Great Debate and Upfront — consider our thumbs up there implied.