Dan Brader is a wild, unique comedian performing his free wheeling, love-it-or-hate-it comedy since 2007. He started in Western Australia and was a part of the competitive Australian comedy scene for two extended periods. 2007-2010 and 2012-2014 (Based in Perth and Melbourne with touring and festivals in there too). Over this period of time he's also consistently toured around NZ and been a key part of the emerging South Island comedy scene when he's been back South for extended periods of time (2010-2012) and recently (2014-present). He's also a prolific writer having written film reviews, video game reviews, music reviews, short plays, comic books and more for various publications and stages including more locally "The Otago Daily Times" and "The Southland Times". He is now in the midst of a nationwide tour for his new solo show "My No Good Stinkin' Loser Comedy Show" which he is taking all over the country and eventually around the world! The first performances of the show in Dunedin Fringe Festival and Palmerston North have already won him a bunch of new fans and friends to his rapidly expanding cult of followers. Here's what the critics have to say--"Brader is a comic you will love or hate, but he's never dull."-- New Zealand Theatre Review.

"In a comedy world that can be a bit ‘same-y’, Dan Brader dares to be different"--ARTSHUB "Known for his morally-questionable storytelling, Dan has a way of making your own wild stories seem tame by comparison"-- Busselton Mail

"He walks his own line and drags the laughs out of it with a sharp shake."--Gagging For It

Reuben Crisp is the stage name of the male comedienne Reuben Crisp.
Once describe by a high-school teacher as “an arrogant smart-arse who uses sarcasm to be a rude asshole!” But this is no longer a concern, given he no longer teaches there.

Just like our new Prime Minister he's young, inexperienced and willing to visit London if the NZ government will fund it. His debut performance in Dunedin, June 2017, and since then this fresh comic has performed across the country: Invercargill; Wanaka; Auckland; Christchurch, and once in the Tron (Hamilton)

Biographical details uncomfortably written in the third person.

“You're very funny, we have to get you on again” - Brendhan Lovegrove

“Thanks for coming to my show” - Arj Barker

“I keep forgetting you’re actually funny” - Josiah Day

“split-second timing, confidence, and brilliantly off-colour gags” - theatreview

Justin is both blessed and cursed by his overwhelming beauty. He has legions of fangirls and fanboys alike, constantly knocking on the front door of his imagination.

He often asks Aphrodite 'why he was chosen to be the vessel of these good looks' — he never asked to be beautiful. If only they would leave him alone to play video games in peace.

Dylan is either the most pessimistic optimist or optimistic pessimist you'll ever meet, we're not sure which.

All we know is he masterfully dances in and out of taboo subjects and he does it all armed with nothing but his quick wits, ignorant bliss and melancholy joy. Dylan is bound to make you laugh, or at least blow air out of your nose really hard.

Simon Kingsley-Holmes has not done tours, telly or gigs of any great note. He has, however, stood in front of rooms full of strangers with nothing more than a microphone and an overinflated sense of his own self worth - thus, he is a comedian.

Corey Humm is the only Comedian in NZ who has been kicked out of three political parties and banned from the chch city council building for life..... 3 times and probably the only left winger in the country depressed about National being voted out because now most of his jokes are irrelevant. Damn you Jacinda!!

Fresh from sold out and critically acclaimed shows in Wellington and Dunedin fringe festivals, 2016 National Raw finalist is an explosion of political and pop culture madness or as Theater Review states “Corey Humm is an outrageously funny electric performer, all of a sudden, this is his room, we're just sitting in it, he crystallises the transgressive, the political and the personal into a vein of comedy that Corey can distinctively 'own'.”

Nick is the new kid on the block!
Some say he's a "promising up and coming comedian" others say "he's quite diverse" his fiance thinks he's not that funny and that she's funnier!

Born and raised in Christchurch, & currently helping rebuild his city, he's not afraid to be on stage because of his kapa haka, theatre experience, his overall demeanour & being a clown!

He has big ambitions & is planning on bringing some exciting material to the scene.
Ready to make people laugh wether it's with him or at him!

Look at this cheeky little fella, his life once held such potential. Early reviews of his life choices included things like “You could work in a box factory”, and, “Yeah I guess a two cent raise is easier than replacing you”. But look at him now! A whimsical pile of dreads, sex, and rock ‘n’ roll, who once received the review “All I remember about Snap is that he has dreads and a floral jacket”.

Snap is many things to many people, but above all else he is an entertainer. Whether it’s breaking world records on 105.7 Pulzar FM, smashing out the laughs on stage, or just living life, this is a performer who will never stop entertaining. Snap’s look certainly appeals to the youth, but his trademark cheeky charm will win over even the most hardened Grey Power members.

"Snap is unique piece of work. He is a very funny man with a very silly name. 10/10 would Snap again." - Jordan Raskopoulos, The Axis of Awesome
“Genuinely lovely” - Nelson Fringe
“Leaves us roaring with laughter” - Art Murmurs
"Mr RuseWebsites is clearly a talented comic" - Theatreview

Best MC - Chch Comedy Awards 2015 / 2017

Logan Kitney brings literal magic to the stage as his hard hitting but polished act of illusions coupled with comedic chops is making big waves in the NZ comedy circuit. His amazing tricks leave audience's opened mouthed.

"Logan WOWED us with his magical genius".
- Keeping up with NZ

"Before you accept Kitney’s act for what it seems, prepare your head for removal as your mind indeed becomes blown".
- What's good NZ

Although Kitney will be the first to say what he does is "for reals hard" the craftsmanship of a seasoned performer shines through when he brings his act full circle in an experience you have to see!

Hey, I am a comedian based out of Christchurch, New Zealand performing in Christchurch and festivals around the county. I’ve performed in hundreds of shows, bringing my high energy style to audiences, treating them with jokes and stories. Having performed at the Dunedin, Auckland, Wellington, Nelson and Hastings Fringe Festivals, and also in my hometowns Christchurch Comedy Carnival, I say Ive been around a fair bit. On stage I talk about a multitude of things including toxic masculinity, death and how great life is. Alright it doesn't sound out right funny, but come to a show and find out!

Hugo Grrrl makes funny shows. You should come see them sometime.

Hugo Grrrl is a Wellington-based comedy and cabaret producer, creating smutty, rough-around-the-edges, politically-charged late-night theatre that’s bound to leave ya with a smile on your face and a bit of glitter in your hair.

This adorable hairy little gentleman is perhaps best known for his creations The Pun Battle Championships and Naked Girls Reading NZ, alongside an impressive resume of other sell-out queer gigs. For his efforts, he was awarded Best Producer at The Wellington Comedy Awards ‘17, and has been featured on TVNZ’s Breakfast, Seven Sharp and The Wireless.

Stay tuned to see what this filthy little powerhouse is up to next. Coming to a city near you, he’s the lad who's always happy to see you, he aims to sexually confuse, he's Hugo Grrrl!

THE VOICE OF A GENERATION - Angel Jordan (@Jordyce) is a truly woke stand-up comedian, writer and hero to the disenfranchised youth of the world. Combining bombastic one liners, devilishly dark insults, socially conscious sexual innuendo and completely detached irony, he’ll touch your heart with his adorable charm. In addition to being Roastmaster of New Zealand’s only show where absolutely nothing is off limits – ROAST BATTLE – he's also the host of the cutest podcast in the world – ‘HOW I BECAME A FAMOUS COMEDIAN'. If he had any friends, they would probably say really nice things to quote here.

Aaron Davies is a Dunedin (New Zealand) based Comedian, MC and Performer. Born and raised amidst the difficult to pronounce towns of North Wales. Aaron has trained with the world famous improvised comedy network Comedy Sportz. He's performed in 4 countries so far (Wales and England are not the same place!!).

Combining a strong improviser toolkit and impersonations with stand-up concepts and delivery, to create an engaging performance where anything can happen.

This comedian is available for corporate bookings

James Fletcher-or better known as' Jimmy the Dwarf' most recently remembered from C4's Award winning show Jono's New Show and his Music video 'Little Jimmy'. Jimmy has been doing comedy and been in front of the Camera now for the last eight to nine years. He has played a number of characters from Leprachurns to Bouncers to Stunt doubling in large feature films. He has also toured comedy round New Zealand and Overseas and performs in over 28 countries.

Ian Loughran has been performing stand-up comedy since 2009 and has performed in New Zealand, Australia and the UK. He has had sold out solo shows in both New Zealand and Australia. He has opened for Urzila Carlson, James Nokise and Fiona McLoughlin. He also writes and performs comic poetry and has had poems published regularly in the ODT, as well as in ‘Down in Eden’ and the anthology Fire and Ice (Solrwyrm Press). As a performance poet he has read in NZ, UK, USA and Australia. Ian is also a playwright, two of his two short plays have been produced and performed in Dunedin: the award-nominated Last Postcard from Cuba and Head Full of Toys. He was recently been accepted onto and completed the Fortune Theatre's 4 x 4 emerging playwright programme for 2017. Ian produces and hosts two radio shows: the specialist poetry show ‘All Good Poems Wear Travelling Shoes’ (OARFM 105.4) and a music show ‘Sidewalking’ (R1 91FM). He regularly organises poetry and comedy events in Dunedin. As an actor his head was blown off in the movie 'I survived a Zombie Apocalypse'.

From Southland to Dunedin, Annie's experienced it all. Despite her obvious wealth of cultural knowledge there is still no appropriate way to finish this sentence.

Georgie
Georgi
Georg
geor
geo
ge
g
go
goo
good

Georgie is good.

Winner - South Island RAW
Winner - Best Show (Nasty Woman line up show Christchurch Comedy Carnival)
Winner - Outstanding Achievement Award (2017 Christchurch Comedy Awards)
Winner - Most Improved (Denton FC 2004)

I dropped out of school to become a fortune teller, but due to unforeseen circumstances, that didn't work out. So, now I'm telling jokes on stage instead. I'm a comedian and improviser based in Christchurch, and I love awkward honesty and the absurd.

I've written some sketches, way too many tweets, and the occasional drunk email to my landlord. My tweets have been featured on BuzzFeed, Funny Or Die, M2woman and Huffington Post. Not bad for someone who rarely leaves her house!


Winner: Best Newcomer Christchurch Comedy 2018
2nd Place: South Island RAW Competition 2018
Nominated: Most Promising Emerging Artist NZ Fringe Festival 2018


"Well-honed skills of both scripting and delivery" - Theatre Review.
"Would watch again" - Otago Daily Times.
"Audrey is great. Disturbing, but great" - RAW audience member.

Hi im Drop Dee. I'm an ex-meth addict with a heart of gold and a message of hope from Eastgate. I love cheesecake, KFC, and walks on the beach. I'm a emo in my late 30s, interesting when asleep and I love cute web cats. I need weight loss tips and a hug from Oprah.

Please laugh at me!

Hailing from a small town the middle of the South, Jonty has far exceeded his family's expectations by surviving in the big city as long as he has (so far), and it hasn’t left him jaded at all (maybe just a bit)! With slick hair and even slicker comedy, you are bound to look at the world a little differently after seeing him on stage.
Spirit of the Carnival - 2017 GoMedia Comedy Carnival

Nicholas Gray is a new comedian on the scene and is currently rising through the ranks. He has made $12.40 so far from gigs and is cool to do whatever it takes to get more for a drink from McDonalds. Nick is one to generally tell stories but will sometimes put an edgy internet joke in to make himself feel special. Telling stories about him growing up will always be a laugh and I (Reuben Crisp) just love seeing him perform. Find him where ever goodiiiish comedians can be found generally at the library or in a bar drowning his sorrows.

He hates it when people bring it up, but Justin "Rusty" White is a critically acclaimed, multi award winning comedian. Who wouldn't be embarrassed by descriptions of his "virtually uninterrupted hour of laughter" show I Learnt Something Once like "a gem of a show", or the somewhat OTT "finely polished masterwork" (Theatreview). How would you like being described as "can only be described as hilarious" (ArtMurmurs Wgtn). How would you recover from being "undoubtedly the highlight of the night" (Caclin magazine) then going on to win Best Comedian (2016 Chch Comedy Awards)? All right, we get it! Jeez. Rusty wishes people would stop going on about it…

"I don't want to labour the point, but this is a funny, funny, funny, funny, funny show" - Theatreview

Stop it.

Best Christchurch Comedian (Christchurch Comedy Awards 2016)
Best Christchurch Comedian (Christchurch Comedy Awards 2017)
Best Male Comedian (GoMedia Comedy Carnival 2017)

Dunedin raised and Christchurch based Emma Feather Shaw takes to the stage as her alter ego Feather Unsure. Feather is the woman behind the ongoing cabaret series, Lads on Tour, and is frequently spotted dabbling in local comedy, burlesque, theatre and poetry scenes. A self-proclaimed "bogan with a hippie name" Feather's anecdotes about cars and boys gained her a spot as a finalist in the 2017 and 2018 South Island RAW Comedy Competition, and she gained the prestigious title of Most Terrifying at the 2016 Christchurch Grand Tease burlesque competition. Her candid and thought-provoking one woman show F*cking Clowns and Other Hobbies received standing ovations and full houses during its national tour last year. Feather completed holds BA in Theatre Studies from the University of Otago, and dreams of one day paying off her student loan.

Jon Bennett is a world renowned comedic storyteller and 7 X JUST FOR LAUGHS AWARD nominee.

Jon’s comedy career began in his homeland Australia, and after 14 years in the business he is now known as one of the most prolific storyteller-comedians touring the world.

With a total of 8 one-hour-long individual comedy shows and appearing in over 65 festivals, Jon is constantly performing across the globe making people laugh through exceptional comedic storytelling.

He has received multiple 5 star reviews in reputable publications world wide and won awards such as Funniest Show Award in the London Fringe, Critics Choice Award for Best Solo Show at the Orlando Fringe and a Golden Gibbo Award nomination at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

He has performed at a number of prestigious festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Just For Laughs in Montreal and multiple times for the illustrious Moth Main Stage Storytelling in the USA. Performing in such distinguished venues such as the Paramount Theatre in Austin, Thebarton Theatre in Adelaide and The Great Hall at Cooper Union in New York. Stages that have housed hugely famous bands and comedians to Presidents Lincoln and Obama.

In 2017 Jon performed at an impressive 24 festivals over four continents garnering even more awards and accolades.


“Hilarious. ★★★★★” – Edmonton Sun (CAN)

“Bennett is the patron saint of storytelling. ★★★★★” – Broadway Baby (UK)

“Bennett is an elite comedian with a masterful delivery, sense of timing, and superlative writing skills. ★★★★★” – Theatre In London

“Bennett is a joy to watch. This is bold, honest, engaging and different to a lot of standard comedy on offer. ★★★★★” – Fringe Guru (UK)

“Incinerates your expectations of the solo confessional, this flammable Australian is in a league of his own. ★★★★½” – Edmonton Journal (CAN)

“Armed only with self-deprecating wit and memories, Bennett reminds us that ordinary people lead extraordinary lives. ★★★★★” – The Sunday Mail (AUS)

“Stories as funny as they are heart-warmingly honest. You will laugh, but you will also tear up at the honesty he brings to the stage. ★★★★★” - National Post


7 X JUST FOR LAUGHS AWARD nominee (Montreal, 2011/12/13/14/15/16/17)

6 X SELECTION - MOTH MAIN STAGE (New York)

4 X BEST COMEDY AWARD nominee (Perth Fringe, 2012/13/14/15)

2 X SELECTION JUST FOR LAUGHS ZOOFEST (Montreal, 2013/2014)

MOTH STORY SLAM WINNER (New York, 2014)

FUNNIEST SHOW AWARD WINNER (London Fringe, 2015)

BEST COMEDY AWARD WINNER (Victoria Fringe, 2017)

PRODUCERS PICK AWARD WINNER (London Fringe, 2017)

BEST INDEPENDENT COMEDY nominee (Melbourne International Comedy Festival, 2015)

PICK OF THE FRINGE AWARD WINNER (Winnipeg Fringe, 2011)

CRITICS PICK OF THE FRINGE AWARD WINNER (San Diego Fringe, 2014)

PICK OF THE FRINGE AWARD WINNER (Calgary Fringe, 2015)

PICK OF THE FRINGE AWARD WINNER (Boulder Fringe, 2015)

BEST PERFORMANCE WINNER (Victoria Fringe, 2016)

CRITICS CHOICE AWARD WINNER (Orlando Fringe, 2015)

Flâneur, raconteur, bon/viveur, and easily the greatest UK/based French comedian around, Marcel Lucont (as seen on The John Bishop Show and Comedy Central at The Comedy Store) resurrects his acclaimed improvised show for one night only, as part of 2018’s Tour Du Monde. Deigning to entertain the delusional with disdainful observations about the hopelessness of their own lives, Marcel is offering up one final Whine List to the baying masses of Auckland.
A kind of group therapy where everyone potentially will leave more depressed.

Marcel has appeared on TV in New Zealand on 7Days (THREE) and Best Bits (TV1); as well as overseas on Ricky Gervais’ “Derek”(C4), Set List (Sky Atlantic), The John Bishop Show (BBC1) and Comedy Central At The Comedy Store.

A Comedy Fest veteran, Marcel Lucont returns to Auckland in 2018:
Marcel Lucont's Whine List | Tue 01 May | Q Theatre | BUY NOW
Marcel Lucont etc - A Chat Show | Wed 02 - Sat 05 May | Q Theatre | BUY NOW

“Hilarious… comedy doesn’t get much better than this” ★★★★★ - Adelaide Advertiser

“Marcel’s control of the audience is like that of Stewart Lee. And I have no higher praise than that… he is ruthless in his rule of the hour” ★★★★ - The Scotsman

Nominee: Best International Guest NZ Comedy Guild 2016

Winner: Chortle Award for Best Sketch/Character/Improv 2015

Fringe World Award for Best Comedy 2013

Amused Moose Award for Best Comedy Edinburgh Fringe 2012

A young up-and-coming comedian based in Wellington.

Rhian is a regular on Raw Meat and Hard Cases as well as gigs amongst the Wellington circuit.

Catch him on his tour around NZ in the personal 1-hour show 'How I Met My Father'.
It's a classic Kiwi tale of finding out who the bloody hell your Dad is.

With a perfect balance of comedy and drama, wild anecdotes and down-to- earth moments, How I Met My Father is both honest and hilarious: An hour where you are invited to laugh wholeheartedly at someone else’s misfortune.

Originally hailing from Timaru, Brent Harpur is a self-taught cartoonist, entertainer and art educator. He failed art at High School as his teacher hated cartoons. But Brent was fortunate to get a great English teacher, who instilled in him a love for words and writing. He has spent nearly thirty years traveling the globe, teaching kids & grown ups how to draw cartoons. At last count Brent has worked in eight different countries, including Australia, the U.S.A., Brazil and Mexico. A career highlight was teaching homeless kids at the Supreme Court of Justice (in Brasilia, Brazil) in 2005. At this point in this career, Brent discovered that cartooning was an "international language". When he is not creating or teaching art, Brent continues to explore new ways to use poetry, fashion, spoken-word, comedy & storytelling as a means of bringing people closer together. He has only just realised that he is a "poet trapped inside a cartoonist's body"!! Oh, and Brent is legally blind. Seriously!!!!

Nathan Cross is a man that has made some interesting life choices. Dissatisfied with the architectural and cultural beauty of his home country, he left Edinburgh, one of the world's capitals of comedy, to pursue his stand-up dreams in the bustling metropolis of Palmerston North.

Nathan brings a high energy mix of keen observation and silly wee stories that he will use to lift your spirits while dropping the odd f-bomb.

Variously described as the Lion of Wiltshire, James Cook 2.0, and the reason God is dead, Joseph embodies the argument for limiting immigration. Fresh off the boat from Salisbury Plain, Joseph is currently studying law, meaning it's a miracle he's got any sense of humor left. What he lacks in general humanity he well makes up for with a wit like a rusty nail and the energetic demeanour of Prince Philip on cocaine, with equivalent appreciation for non-British culture. Joseph loves speaking truth to power with such bangers as Winston Peters' racehorse breeding program, the private school beauty pageant, and that one time he went to Australia. Like he told your mum, prepare to be sexually unfulfilled and yet inexplicably hungry for more.

I am a good worder, and I tell stories.

I made my mum laugh one time

At only 16 years old, Moe is the youngest performer in the Dunedin comedy scene, but more than that, Moe is also the shortest

Described as “an unexpected delight” and “one to watch”, Liv McKenzie is an exciting up and coming comedian in the Christchurch comedy scene. She used to live in New York, but don’t worry, she’ll bring that up every 10 seconds so you don’t forget.

BEST NEWCOMER - 2016 Christchurch Comedy Awards
2nd PLACE - 2016 South Island Raw Comedy Competition
NOT AS FUNNY AS SHE THINKS SHE IS - Her mum

Having grown accustomed to performing in front of an audience during her 5 year stint as a burlesque performer, 2016 saw Ashleigh Blair take to the stage - without taking her clothes off - for the very first time.

Since trading in the art of the tease for the writing of sleaze, Ashleigh has been honing her craft regularly through performances at open mic nights and local comedy shows.

Her style has finally taken shape as the frivolous, asinine variety of comedy she had always hoped it would be, and combined with her deadpan delivery, is sure to make you laugh.

“Genuinely funny act” – whatsupnz.com April 2017

3rd Place: South Island RAW Comedy Competition 2017

Featured in 2017 Christchurch Comedy Carnival ‘Best Show’ winner - Nasty Women

Hailing from Lower Hutt, Wellington, Joe has been tipped as a rising star following performances around the country as both a headliner and MC, including a season alongside nationally-renowned sketch group Frickin Dangerous Bro. This was cemented following an appearance in the 2018 Raw Comedy Quest Finals, all achieved prior to even his first full year as a comedian.

He also appears in his very own podcast and webseries, SHXT TALK with Joe Daymond which is available on iTunes, YouTube and Spotify and has already featured the likes of Phil Wang, Art Green & Matilda Rice, Jamie Curry, Guy Williams and many more.

Check out SHXT TALK on YouTube or iTunes

Nathan is a Christchurch based comedian who enjoys airline food, specifically cookie time cookies on Air New Zealand.

Young but extremely talented, as illustrated by his nomination for Emerging Talent at the 2018 Nelson Fringe Festival. Nathan blends the serious with humor, drawing from his personal experiences with depression, anxiety and how he feels about the mental health system in New Zealand

- "Nathan is really really funny" - Echoes from the Wings

Nominated for Emerging Talent at the 2018 Nelson Fringe Festival.

Have you ever thought of your life as hard? Well to be honest this page isn't about you, so instead let Mackenzie sit you down and let you know just how hard and yet rewarding it is to be her. True story.

Jessica Jean is a local Christchurch comedian, with a ruthless rapier wit that she applies equally to her own life and society as a whole. Her background in theatre, tv and improvised comedy has equipped her with an engaging stage-presence that captivates her audience, drawing them into her world of the weird, the awkward and the absurd . Jess has been described as "likeable" on stage which is unfortunate for her as she spends most of her time trying to avoid other humans. Jess has no apologies for making her mark in comedy.

- 2017 and 2018 South Island RAW Finalist
-Winner- Best Show (Nasty Women Line up Show, 2017 Christchurch Comedy Carnival)

An up and coming talent in the Dunedin comedy scene

Rob McLennan is a purveyor of fine one-liner gags.

Rob is also said (by unreliable sources) to have reinvented the wheel in 1849, by making it round. He lives with a wife and two children. He’s not sure whose – it’s never come up in conversation. In his spare time, he enjoys taking his pet millipede, Craig, for long walks in the park.

(Actual) Reviews

" …short witty one-liners saw tears in my eyes. " ~ Sasha Jamieson (The Bog)

"A nice compact set of semi-rhetorical musings ... Nicely delivered ... Very funny." ~ Patrick Davies (The Church, Dunedin Fringe)

"Rob's sets are always completely packed with well crafted material and delivery that I look forward to seeing every time." ~ Chris Mac (SIX60)

My name is Richie Lewis.
I am new to comedy and so far I bloody love it!
I am a New Zealand musician, father and husband, no the doll is not my wife... but definitely complains less 😂

I like to bring the dodgyness and like to get down and dirty. Am terrified of farts! Come see the team live and have a good time!

Heath Franklin is a 29 year old Logie-nominated Australian actor, comedic performer, improviser and writer.

Franklin made his television debut on the sketch show The Ronnie Johns Half Hour (2005-06), and was in fact the eponymous host, on his papier mache horse, The Good Taste Pony. Franklin is best known for his characters from Network 10's numerous appearances on 'The Ronnie Johns Half Hour', 'Spicks and Specks' and 'Thank God Youre Here'.

However, it is his character, Chopper, a comedic impersonation of real-life criminal Mark 'Chopper' Read that has become an international cult hit, and continues to be one of the most regularly downloaded Australian videos on YouTube

Heath is based in Australia, but manages to pop over to New Zealand several times a year.
When in town, he often pops into The Classic to headline or with a new show on trial.
Heath can also be seen as a guest panelist on TV3's 7 Days.

Ray Shipley is a comedian and writer currently based in Ōtautahi, Aotearoa. In 2017, Ray was awarded ‘Highly Commended’ at the National Raw Comedy Quest, and is the current Christchurch Poetry Slam Champion.

'Highly Commended' National Raw Comedy Quest 2017

Christchurch Poetry Slam Champion 2016

Louise Beuvink has been storming the NZ comedy circuit with her trademark delightfully dry and dark style of comedy.

After bursting onto the scene in 2014 as a Raw Comedy Quest finalist, she was later that year nominated for Best Female Comedian at the New Zealand Comedy Guild Awards.

Louise recently performed her debut solo show, Quarter-life Crisis, at the 2016 NZ International Comedy Festival, receiving all-round rave reviews.

Don’t miss one of this country’s most exciting young comics.

“Witty, biting, sarcastic but incredibly engaging. The future of New Zealand comedy.” - Ben Hurley (7 Days)

“Brilliantly funny” – Art Murmurs

“Witty, intelligent and has a terrific delivery” – 3 News

“Charismatic, self-aware style with pin-point timing” – Theatreview

AWARDS

• The Greenroomer Award – Christchurch Comedy Carnival 2016


• Best Female Comedian, nominee – NZ Comedy Guild Awards 2014


• Most Improved Comedian, nominee – NZ Comedy Guild Awards 2014


• Raw Comedy Quest Finalist, 2014

Neil Thornton has made a big impact on the New Zealand comedy circuit since arriving here from New York City. In the United States, Neil was a regular in New York comedy clubs, and performed in Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Provincetown, and Fire Island.

Since arriving in New Zealand, he has toured up and down the country, entertaining audiences with his battles of understanding Kiwi culture and finding his own identity. He's a favorite at Auckland and Wellington comedy clubs, and recently appeared in the TV3 comedy special "After Hours." His fringe festival show, Ursus Americanus, was nominated for the Best Stand-Up Comedy award, and his NZ International Comedy Festival show, Bearly Kiwi, was nominated for Best Newcomer.

“Thornton is just a master of the craft of comedy – the room is totally unified and he knows how to follow our responses.” - Theatreview

"A bold performer with intelligent material. Constantly amusing and thought-provoking." - Ruminator

"I laughed until I cried and nearly got thrown out for snorting into my beer." - The Residents

"The Capital's Funniest Bear" - Express Magazine

Pax is regarded as one of the most exciting young acts in the country by his peers and audiences alike.

Pax was nominated for the Billy T Award in 2013 with only 2 two years of comedy under his belt. He has gone on to appear on a number of local television shows Including TV One's panel show Word Up, TV 3s 7 Days, Maori TVs Crack Up and a regular on the critically acclaimed Brown Eye.

Born and raised in the New Zealand and the son of immigrant parents, Pax brings a unique perspective that resonates with people of every background.

Pax's hectic blend of personal stories and insightful observations will have you pondering the big questions of life whilst simultaneously doubled over with laughter.

2011 Raw Comedy Quest finalist

2013 Billy T Comedy Award nominee

A genuine talent with a natural gift for stand up - INGRID GRENAR, Keeping up with NZ

Star of TV3's current series '1000 Apologies' and The Millen Baird Show A previous Billy T Award nominee, Winner of Raw Comedy Quest in 1998 and Winner of 'BEST SHOW' - 2004 NZ International Comedy Festival Tarun has been on the local pro circuit for over ten years.
Having performed in Australia, North America, Asia, South Africa and the UK. In recent times he has dabbled in the thespian world and has chalked up 3 theatre pieces, D'arranged Marriage, From India with love and Cornershop Confessions.

For more info do check out my RAD website! www.thatindianguy.com Tarun is also the host of The Asian Radio Show Saturday evenings on Radio Live.

Terry Frisby is a 20 year kiwi comedy veteran who spent 10 years on the world renowned UK comedy circuit. One of the regulars at the Classic in its early days, he now resides back in the deep south of NZ where he is a regular host of shows in all the southern hot spots from Stewart Island and Queenstown to Gore and Invercargill. He has over 25 television appearances under his belt including Stand Up Britain, The TV2 Comedy Christmas Cracker, Pulp Comedy and The Unofficial World Records of Sex.

"Witty wry and very funny" The Press

After temporarily paralysing his mother during child birth with his unusually large cranium, Dubliner Alan McElroy dragged his heavy noggin around, accumulating scratches and scrapes from the ground and the carpet burn from the never ending sand paper like floor covering that devoured Ireland in the 1980s. As the Old Country moved into the 90s, so did the floor covering material. Heavily influenced by home decorating television shows, the wooden floors had Alan looking like a shunned, unkempt hedgehog because of the countless splinters stuck in his head.

It took 28 years before Alan grew into his own mallet-of-head and was finally able to leave Ireland and fly to New Zealand, without being forced to pay a large extra baggage fee.

Now he regularly performs on the Auckland scene to laughter, LAUGHTER!

AWARDS
'BEST NEWCOMER' - 2010 NZ Comedy Guild Awards

A meteoric act in the NZ comedy scene, the Filipino comic recently won the 2016 Billy T James award.

David grew up in Christchurch and after deciding stand up comedy and performing arts was the career he wanted to pursue, David moved to Auckland in 2014 and has been making big strides since the move including being given the "Comic Originality" award at the 2015 Comedy Guild Awards.

His style of comedy can be described as a big ball of manic energy that even his body can't keep up with.

"David Correos, seems only to have to stand there to get laughs" - Theatreview (Aotearoha: Rising Stars)

His energetic performance leaves him panting for air and the audience begging for more. - Metromag

A one-man circus who will do practically anything to entertain an audience for the genuine love of it.- Theatrescenes

2016 Billy T Comedy Award Winner

Jack performs with that youthful enthusiasm we all pretend to love but secretly despise.
At the age of 16 he was a 2015 Raw Quest Finalist. Apart from NCEA Level One, that is his greatest achievement to date.

With a level of self awareness rarely found in any performer Jack is an act who will genuinely surprise you, Jack is not a performer you should overlook.

"Surprised me ... younger than I thought he was." - Ben Hurley

"He has a natural, comfortable presence on stage like he just belongs there. His humour is a breath of fresh air.” - Art Murmurs

“Jack must not allow his enthusiasm and sense of humour to interrupt the learning of others.” - Burnside High School

When crowds gather in the swirling darkness and rub their hands together, hungry for laughter, he will be there to feed them.
When expectations are forged and stand tall, teetering and fragile, he will be there to shatter them.
When blurbs are in need of wild hyperbole, he will make that happen.
An exciting, unpredictable performer and, for better or worse, a wholly original act in the Christchuch scene, he is your best friend, your worst nightmare, your favourite child, your darkest secret.
Aaron Jelley will steal your heart and feed it to you.
Aaron Jelley. Will. Make. You. Laugh.

Jo Ghastly is an actor, improviser and comedian. Previous career highlights include being a Canterbury 3ZB cheerleader last century and being typecast on stage and screen as everyone’s bitchy mother. Comedy provides welcome relief from perimenopausal mood swings and the tortures of parenting teenagers.

“I smirked throughout and almost laughed once” review of standup set from 13 year old son

“Very funny” Jack Ansett Facebook comment

Gerrit Gray is a man of many talents, the most of which is stand-up comedy. Breaking through the mold of the greats before him, he is storming the pantheon with such bits as "The nazi dog" and "Small Pox" leaving audiences wracked with both laughing and sobbing fits. He appeals to both your endless joy, and your limitless sorrow in the endless cascade of performance. His words are like dance, he whirls and twists, a balcony of expression. He confuses like Confuscious and writes words like Shakespere, one would wonder how he fits such art into a mere 4 minutes of material that he's written over a year of performing. Sure, one might say that four minutes of material over a year and a half of performing is lacking, but Gerrit denies that, saying that over the 2 years that he has been performing he has learnt that you always leave the audience wanting more.

One of Dunedin's more experienced comedians, she gained her comedy wings back home in the USA. She lives here now, for obvious reasons

Jonathan Falconer grew up in San Diego, California and started doing stand-up in Salt Lake City, Utah. While in Utah he completed a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry to help advance his comedy career. He has been performing comedy regularly since 2013, featuring on shows across the country from California to New York and internationally in Germany and Australia. Jonathan has a sharp wit and a bright smile that makes it easy to laugh at depressing subjects. He has performed at the Idaho Laugh Fest, Golden Spike Comedy Festival, and featured in New York City, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, and California. He has headlined clubs throughout Utah including Wiseguys Comedy Club in Salt Lake City. In 2015, he was runner up for the Best Comedian in Utah award by City Weekly.

Harriet has a lifetime of performing, writing, public speaking and entertaining up her sleeves, you can relax in the knowledge that any events she hosts is in capable hands and you can focus on the important stuff.

Highlights of her performing antics (or perhaps they can be more accurately described as low lights – you decide), include insights on being a solo parent, observations on the absurdity/awesomeness of it all and just whatever else she feels inclined to over share about. Some of it will be important but most of it won't. Some of it will make you laugh, cringe and choke on your cornflakes and some of it will possibly even see you reaching for the tissues. There will be stuff you will relate to and stuff you won't. Either way, s'ok. You'll still be friends.

So move over Kim K, there's a new girl in town.

* Winner - Swingiest Boobs in Dunedin - 5 years running

* 2nd place - Best Mum Award - after everyone else's mum according to my children

* World Champion - Most Likely to Pee My Pants Unexpectedly Competition

Shawn Jay is a wandering vagabond philosopher and self-styled pedant. Usually based in Berlin and host of legendary show 'The Last Stand', he is currently on a sojourn in New Zealand after a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival last year.
Having travelled to over 60 countries and lived in 7, he surely has a lot of crazy tales about a life on the road to tell, but he'll probably analyse song lyrics and talk philosophy instead. His humour ranges from the surreal to the scholastic. Prepare. Mentally.

"A brilliant surrealist. Laugh-out-loud humour. Surreal, poignant, inspired." - The International Times

In 2011, James was a stand-out performer on TV3's "AotearoHa: Next Big Things" and was nominated for 'Best Newcomer' in the 2013 International Comedy Festival for his solo show "James Roque is Chicken!?".

Outside of the comedy world, James trained as an actor at Unitec in Auckland and is a co-founder of Pretty Asian Theatre, a company dedicated to bringing Asian inspired stories to the New Zealand stage. He has also worked with Indian Ink Theatre company touring with the hit show "Kiss the Fish".

Roque continues to be a regular at The Classic and performs comedy throughout the country on a mission to show New Zealand what you get when the Filipino and Kiwi cultures collide.

Reviews:

"A magnet for tear-drawing laughter" KeepingUpWithNZ.org.nz

"Represents an authentic New Zealand identity" TheatreScenes.co.nz

Conor Fenelon is a local Christchurch comedian who burst into the scene three years ago. Over this time he has opened for internationaly working comedian Jamie Bowen and performed along side Cori Gonzalez. His combination of sharp wit, cynicism and silliness makes him a irreverent yet delightful talent to watch.

Brendon Green is a nice guy. Probably.

Mixing hilarious traditional stand-up with skilful wordplay, works of written fiction, sweet musical comedy, and potentially harrowing personal admissions, 2014 Billy T Award nominee Brendon Green examines the devious side of being a nice guy.

"He uses words and wordplay skilfully… and also has a sweet wit about him" - Stuff.co.nz

2014 Billy T Award Nominee

2012 Best Newcomer - NZ International Comedy Festival

Scott is a middle class white male comedian that is not as old or young as he looks.

He appeared on the New Zealand comedy scene in 2014. Since then he has been talking at groups of strangers from elevated platforms in various locations and making them laugh on a pretty consistent basis.

He was a Grand Finalist in the 2015 Raw Comedy Quest.

Gary Sansome is a tough speaking, (to English folk anyway) off the wall Scottish Comedian and MC. Gary has performed across the globe at some of the biggest Comedy Clubs in the UK, Ireland North America, Australia and Mainland Europe including Carolines on Broadway in New York CIty, Yuk Yuks in Toronto and the Comedy Lounge in Perth, Australia. He has performed 5 Edinburgh Fringe Shows in 2011,2014,2015, 2016, 2017 and performed his debut solo show The Bald and the Bold at Adelaide Fringe in 2014 where he was called “Amusing and Satisfying” by Krystoff Raw. His sold-out Edinburgh debut show Bald Man Sings Rihanna received both audience and critical praise including a 5 star review from Bunbury Magazine. He annually hosts Scotfest in Tulsa, Olkahoma one of the biggest festivals celebrating Scottish Culture in North America – the festival attracts over 30,000 people across the weekend.

"If you want an hour of pure entertainment and hilarity, get to see Gary Sansome" ★★★★★ - Bunbury Magazine

"Exceptionally funny. I would say fucking funny, but they've asked me not to swear" - Mark Dolan, C4 Balls of Steel

Tony delivers an engaging and unpredictable style of comedy that "digresses into any avenue but the one you’d expect".

A confident slacker with an endearing nature, he takes the audience on a trip, even if he isn’t entirely sure where they will end up.

Having recently featured in 2016 Next Big Things with Ben Hurley and in his own 2016 New Zealand International Comedy Festival show 'Comedians For Hire', Tony is definitely one to keep an eye on.

"Self-deprecating and able to steer the show mercilessly toward the vibe of the audience, these two misplaced gems are ones to keep an eye on" - KeepingupwithNZ

"Shaggy around the edges... there is some truly great material here" - Theatrescenes

"Unfaltering and contagious energy throughout" - The Speakeasy

"Hecklers beware – thou shalt be burned" - KeepingupwithNZ

Born in New Jersey, raised in northern California, and exported to his parents’ homeland of New Zealand, Luke Callaghan has a knack for roasting both Kiwi and American culture alike.

Having won the 2013 NZ Comedy Guild award for Best Newcomer, Luke now performs all over New Zealand and has been in 2 NZ International Comedy Festival shows, a 2014 RAW Comedy Quest Grand Final, and a minor altercation over a parking spot.

“Easily one of the smartest young comedians in NZ…genuinely funny and very topical.” - Brendhan Lovegrove

2013 Best Newcomer - NZ Comedy Guild Awards

James Mustapic has a satirical dry style and makes cutting observations which come in surprising contrast to his soft spoken presence.

Known for sharing unapologetic stories of people who have done him wrong over the years, he enjoys candidly expressing his emotions in a self-deprecating manner. James doesn’t pull any punches and treads the line between polite and risky.

2019 Billy T Nominee NZ International Comedy Festival
2018 Winner Best Newcomer NZ International Comedy Festival

Dion Arnold has toured the UK and Ireland, taped a comedy album with Comedy Records, Toured Western Canada and is the host of the popular weekly show; EL COMEDY in his hometown of Edmonton Alberta.

“Even his laugh is funny.” – Mathew Sushi

Best of the Fest - Brighton Fringe
Best of the Fest - Galway Fringe
1st place- Battle of the Acts - Dublin

Donna Brookbanks is an actor, comedian, improviser and writer.

She produces and plays in Snort, a weekly cult hit improv show at The Basement Theatre. Donna was a Raw Comedy semi-finalist 2016 and appeared on Next Big Things – a line up comedy show - both as part of this year’s New Zealand Comedy Festival.

She was part of the Comedy Debate in the Queenstown Winter Festival in 2015. She has appeared on panel comedy television show Best Bits and has written for Jono and Ben. Donna has also written and performed in Funny Girls, a sketch show for TV3 for the past two years.

She studied acting at The Neighbourhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City. This year Donna and Alice Snedden are performing in a split bill show as part of the Melbourne Comedy Festival and Donna is also debuting her solo show in the New Zealand Comedy Festival.

Daniel John Smith loves words. He loves words so much that if he had to choose between you and words he'd choose both, because that seems like the kind of theoretical choice he'd never actually have to make.

He's making new life-rules for himself because he realized life really only has guidelines. About this, he's confident that he's right and that you can probably be convinced.

"His storytelling is cohesive, competent and incredibly funny" - The Ruminator

Winner - Wellington Regional Final of the 2014 Raw Comedy Quest

Winner - Best Newcomer in the 2014 Wellington Comedy Awards

Nominee for Best Comedian in the 2014 Wellington Comedy Awards

2014 Raw Comedy Quest Finalist - National Final

Star of hit TV3's 7 Days, Ben Hurley is one of the success stories of New Zealand standup comedy. Winner of the two biggest comedy awards in New Zealand - The 2004 Oddfellows Billy T award and the 2008 Fred Dagg award, Hurley is a headline act in his native NZ but also on the highly competitive UK circuit. In 2008 he supported Irish superstar Ed Byrne on a 70 day sell out tour of the UK and Irelend.

With a massive but hugely likeable stage presence, Hurley can win over even the toughest room. A sharp improvisational mind and well honed original material make Hurley a popular act with audiences and critics alike.

One of New Zealand's best travelled comedians. Ben has wowed audiences in 10 countries including Switzerland, Dubai, Spain, Australia, Singapore and Bahrain.

"One of the Most exciting young Standups on the UK circuit and hes a Kiwi!" InLondon Magazine 2007
"A Kiwi Comedic Legend" The New Zealand Herald (NZ) 2006
"Impressively slick and yes, funny." NZ News UK (UK) 2006
"He can be easily consumed as pure entertainment" Metro (UK) 2005

Alexander is a writer / performer from Wellington.

He is best known for the solo shows DJ Trump, ENIGMA, de Sade, and A Collection of Noises.
His previous scripts cover a wide range of genres – from black comedy to psychological horror – and several have had critically acclaimed performances around New Zealand.

Alexander has performed at Shakespeare’s Globe in London as part of the Shakespeare Globe Centre New Zealand’s Young Shakespeare Company (SGCNZ YSC).

He has written and performed in multiple solo and group shows in the New Zealand Fringe Festival and the New Zealand International Comedy Festival.

” . . . comedic genius . . .” - Regional News

“A true professional . . . bespoke, artisan comedy.” - Wellington Reviews

“. . . animated and full of energy . . . strangely entertaining . . .” - Dominion Post

Winner: Outstanding Achievement 2017 Wellington Comedy Awards

Winner: Best Show (DJ Trump) 2017 Wellington Comedy Awards

Winner: Breakthrough Act 2016 Wellington Comedy Awards