Comedy
Comedy clubs, comedians and comedy festivals in Melbourne
Michael McIntyre
Michael McIntyre does things big: big tours, big venues, big crowds and big laughs. He consistently sells out the kind of long runs that could turn pretty much any major rockstar green with envy. He's even played 28 shows at London's 16,000-seat O2 Arena, eclipsing all other comedy acts. So it makes sense that his new globe-trotting arena tour is called simply Michael McIntyre's Big World Tour. The British stand-up star is best known for his appearances on just about every BBC comedy show, and in 2016 he launched his new BAFTA Award-winning series, Michael McIntyre's Big Show. The Australian leg kicks off in Perth on March 20, 2019, and lands at Melbourne's Rod Laver Arena on March 22. There are also dates in Adelaide, Brisbane and Sydney.
Stand-up comedy nights in Melbourne
We are so spoiled for choice when it comes to comedy in Melbourne – there's laughs to be had every night of the week, if you know where to look. Keen for a post-show drink? Visit one of Melbourne's best bars so the laughs can keep rollin'. Melbourne's finest late-night snacks may come in handy too.
This week in Melbourne comedy
The Big HOO-HAA!
One of the nation's longest running improv nights keeps on improv-ing
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Road trip: Sonoma County
No trip to San Francisco is complete without a detour through wine country, where Napa and Sonoma vintners produce some of the world’s most admired wines. Sonoma is the larger of the two regions and grows a wider variety of grapes, although both are famous for lush, hilly landscapes and stand-out pinot noir and chardonnay. Whether you’re looking for inspiring vineyard views, a hiking trail forgiving of a cabernet buzz, or an Instagram-worthy wine cave, you’ll find it in Sonoma. The drive from downtown San Francisco to Santa Rosa is an hour and 40 minutes; check into the Astro (323 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA; from $160), a 1960s-era motel that retained its vintage flair after a head-to-toe remodel in 2018. The mid-century modern rooms feature fixtures and furniture crafted by local artisans, from the concrete sinks to the retro-chic tiles; even the bath products are produced by local beauty brand ShinKai. Left your heart in San Francisco? Check out our top 26 things to do in the Bay City.
Strike Bowling's new menu is upgrading bowling alley food
Let's be honest: from the fries to the American-style hot dogs, half the fun of going bowling is eating and drinking with your mates. And thanks to Strike Bowling, all your bowling alley faves just got a delicious upgrade. Strike Bowling has created a new menu and it’s everything you love about bowling alley dining, but better. This menu takes American diner favourites and makes them even more satisfying. On the menu, you’ll find delicious cocktails, beer and wine, as well as hot dogs, pizzas and plenty of sides perfect for a small group outing to end-of-year event. Got a big appetite? The Dirty Big Dog hot dog combines a cheese kransky wiener with slow-braised pulled pork, cheddar cheese, bacon, slaw and smoky Texas sauce in a white bun. If you’re craving a pizza you’re in luck – Strike Bowling do stone-baked pizzas in flavours like simple margherita right through to the ever-contentious ham and pineapple combo. Naturally, you’ll want to team your meal with fries. Choose from loaded fries, tater tots, waffle fries or spiced potato wedges. For something small grab something from the sides menu (now featuring vegan pies and jalapeño poppers) and team it with a drink. Strike also has a cocktail menu with everything from bar favourites like Espresso Martinis, Margaritas and Long Island Ice Tea, to house signature drinks like the bourbon-based Maple Rickey or sweet and fruity VaVa Vanilla vodka cocktail. There are also virgin cocktails and beer and wine available – all the b
Melbourne International Arts Festival Festival Feasts
If you're an arts lover, an adventure seeker or constantly on the hunt for new experiences, then October is one of the most exciting months to be in Melbourne. The Melbourne International Arts Festival (Oct 3-21, 2018) is a feast of world-class dance, theatre, music, visual arts, outdoor events and more. While you're planning your perfect Melbourne International Arts Festival, it pays to take advantage of the Festival Feasts program, which gives you a special offer of a complimentary beverage with feast partners. The offer is available every day during the festival, and all you need to do is show a valid ticket at the venue when making a purchase. If you are booking online, select the Melbourne International Arts Festival promo. The offer is redeemable only when you make a purchase; check each venue for details. There is nothing like a drink to get the party started. Check out our Melbourne International Arts Festival 2018 highlights hit list.
Eva Rothschild: Kosmos
This is the first solo Australian exhibition of the Irish-born artist who's set to represent Ireland at next year’s Venice Biennale. For her illustrious two decade career, she’s used just about every material imaginable – concrete, leather, jesmonite, fabric and plastic – to create striking but minimal sculptures. She draws her inspiration from the minimal art of the 1960s and '70s, as well as classical architecture and pop culture. The exhibition at ACCA brings together recent work from the past decade with brand new commissions.
