The jokes on everyone with Brisbane Comedy Festival returning in 2021

 2020 – Worst. Punchline. Ever. 

In news that’s sure to put a smile on your dial, Brisbane Powerhouse is tickled pink to announce Brisbane Comedy Festival will return in 2021. 

The three-week-long festival of laughs and live gigs returns to Brisbane Powerhouse, The Tivoli and The Fortitude Valley Music Hall on the new dates of 16 July to 8 August 2021. 

In a welcome boost for the Australian entertainment industry, Brisbane Powerhouse is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from comedians and artists who want to join the star-studded 2021 line-up. 

Brisbane Powerhouse Artistic Director Kris Stewart said moving Brisbane Comedy Festival to the second half of the year allowed time to plan a huge return to the spotlight after the laughs were cut short when COVID-19 forced the cancellation of the 2020 Festival’s final week. 

“Let’s face it, after everything 2020 has thrown us, we need a laugh and more importantly, our top comedians need an audience – and an income – after months of venue lockdowns and cancelled gigs,” Mr Stewart said. 

“Border closures and travel restrictions mean international acts will most likely not tour Australia as part of the comedy festival circuit in 2021. 

“But as every Brisbane Comedy Festival demonstrates, year after year, some of the world’s best comedic talent is right here in Australia and we can’t wait to welcome them back to our stage.” 

Comedians keen to get audiences rolling in the aisles once again can submit an EOI via brisbanecomedyfestival.com.au. 

Mr Stewart said Brisbane Comedy Festival’s new 2021 dates should also provide greater certainty for interstate artists planning Queensland shows. 

“COVID-19 is no laughing matter but since Brisbane Powerhouse opened to artists and audiences in July, we’ve been a bright spot on the city’s entertainment and performance scene,” he said. 

From our first intimate Lights On performances to our out-of-the-box Brisbane Festival events, to our expanding program of concerts and live shows, Brisbane Powerhouse has been creative with how we use our space and we can’t wait to fill it with top quality comedians and performers bringing the belly laughs. 

“With the easing of venue capacity restrictions in Queensland and interstate borders opening, Brisbane Comedy Festival 2021 is set to be one heck of a show.” 

Brisbane Comedy Festival returns from 16 July to 8 August 2021. 

More information, including line-up, venue and ticketing details, will be released in 2021. 

Comedians and artists wishing to take part in Brisbane Comedy Festival 2021 are invited to submit an Expression of Interest via brisbanecomedyfestival.com.au.