Just for Laughs 2012

Overview

The Sydney satellite of the world's biggest comedy festival, Just for Laughs, based out of Montreal, returns in October to the Opera House. Gear up for pick-and-mix galas, compelling solo shows, and dirtier, more daring club nights calling on some of the coolest names from the international and local circuit.

Drew Carey makes his live Australian debut, hosting the All-Star Comedy Gala, while Adam Hills hosts the curated collaboration of his favourite local and international comics, the International Gala. And no-one but Rhys Darby could host the Kiwi Gala. Otherwise known as Murray Hewitt from Flight of the Conchords, Darby will take to the stage to introduce the comic stars from the land "with rivers and gullies and hobbits and toothbrush fences".

One of the most anticipated guests in the fest is the always outrageously dressed Noel Fielding, co-creator of The Mighty Boosh, star of Never Mind the Buzzcocks, and sexy deadpan conductor of characters and strange voices. Gracing the Australian stage for the first time in nearly 10 years, he'll be playing host to his own titular gala. It'll be an easy battle between logic and imagination on an acid trip.

Joining these all-time faves is Aziz Ansari (Parks and Recreation), Gabriel Iglesias, Bill Burr, Ed Byrne, Dave Gorman, and Sam Simmons. Other highlights of the festival include The Nasty Show hosted by Jeff Ross, where crass and offensive comics fill out a club show set in the SOH Studio. With roasts, verbal assaults, and cringeworthy laughs, it's not a set for the fainthearted. On a lighter note, the Studio also plays home to Amp'd, the "music comedy show" for live music, improv, and skits.