Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow 2026

In 2026, Arts North West partnered with the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow to deliver a regional tour across the New England North West, bringing nationally recognised comedy performances to audiences in Armidale, Gunnedah and Glen Innes.

As Australia’s largest comedy festival, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow showcased a curated line-up of established comedians and emerging talent from across Australia and beyond. The tour provided regional audiences with access to high-quality contemporary performing arts experiences that are often limited outside metropolitan centres.

The program contributed to the cultural vibrancy of the region by activating local venues, supporting audience development and increasing access to live performance opportunities within regional communities. Delivered across three locations, the tour encouraged community participation, social connection and regional visitation while strengthening partnerships between arts organisations, venues and local communities.

The Roadshow formed part of Arts North West’s ongoing commitment to supporting access to diverse arts and cultural experiences across regional NSW and ensuring communities in the New England North West can engage with nationally significant arts programming.

ON TOUR DATES:

📅7.30pm Thurs 7th May (Armidale)

📌 The Welder's Dog Brewery , 101 Beardy St, Armidale NSW 2350

📅7.30pm Friday 8th May (Gunnedah)

📌 The Civic Theatre, 81 Chandos Street, Gunnedah NSW 2480

📅7.30pm Saturday 9th May (Glen Innes)

📌 Glen Innes Chapel Theatre, 143 Church St, Glen Innes NSW 2370