This year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival is the most diverse yet with more than 20 percent of performers from culturally and linguistically diverse.

Over four weeks, the 40th Melbourne International Comedy is made up of around 700 shows featuring more than a thousand performers from more than 20 countries, making it the biggest dedicated comedy festival in the world, with around 760,000 tickets sold.

The festival includes stand-up comics, cabaret, sketch, circus, improv, plays and other performances on 182 stages in 133 venues.

Among the international acts from diverse backgrounds are Aliya Kanani (India/US), Jacky Ng (Singapore), Douglas Lim (Malaysia), Hahashki (Russia), Kuah Jenhan (Singapore), Pioter Sikora (Poland), Prahasti Singh (India), Chan Lok Tim (Hong Kong) and The Pong Show (Singapore).

Emo Majok and Aliya Kanani

Local acts from diverse backgrounds include: Dilruk Jayasinha, Akmal, Alan Feng and Kiyanosh Sahebi, Carmelo Costa, Emo Majok, Lantian Li Nazeem Hussain and Mae Da.

One extraordinary comedy festival event is award-winning South Sudanese Australian comedian Emo Majok who joins forces with Canadian comedy powerhouse and oscar nominee Aliya Kanani for a hilariously honest deep dive into modern love.

They each take the stage to share their unfiltered side of the relationship, then reunite for a no-holds-barred couple’s roast where grievances become punchlines. It’s therapy, but cheaper – and with way more jokes.

Crowned King of Malaysian Comedy, Douglas Lim delivers twisting and turning witty commentaries with an electrifying delivery.

Aaqib Merchant

Aaqib Merchant’s act is also a highlight. After an hour in his company, audiences will leave feeling lighter, refreshed and with a sense of satisfaction that makes them a better person.

Other highlights include the indigenous show Deadly Funny National Grand Final and the Asian Allstars Gala.

With all of these excellent offerings, it’s time to broaden your horizons and see some comedy from around the world. Tickets are on sale now and selling fast.

See more detail here: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/