International Convention Centre

In case you missed it, last year was a big one for Ali Wong. The Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian shot even further into prominence when the dark comedy Beef was released in April 2023 to widespread acclaim, and she’s only continued to fly since then.Wong spent the rest of the year taking her stand-up show Ali Wong: Live all around the United States to rave reviews. Now, some of us Sydneysiders will soon be lucky enough to see her in real life. That’s right: on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20, Ali Wong will be right here in the Emerald City – performing her trademark brand of stand-up at the International Convention Centre (ICC). Initially, just the one date was announced – but the appetite from Sydneysiders encouraged the comedian to add an extra Sydney show to her tour. Wong is arriving in the Harbour City following a three-night stint in Melbourne, and will head up the coast to Brisbane after her Sydney shows. Tickets start from $149 and range up to $339 – check out what’s available here. In the meantime, study up by watching one of Wong’s three Netflix specials, the first of which came out back in 2016. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS:Keen for a laugh? These are the best places to see comedy in Sydney Meet the cast of Sydney's exclusive return season of Hamilton Check out the best shows to see on Sydney's stages this month  

Whether you’re mad for cosplay, a gaming wizard or in love with the artistry of anime and manga, the return of SMASH! is sure to excite Japanese pop-culture fans. The weekend program includes panel discussions, film screenings, music and dance performances, art demonstrations and creative workshops. They’ve invited a host of industry pros who’ll be talking shop and answering audience questions. Meet prolific singers and voice actors, well-known cosplayers, and the creators behind your favourite animations and anime stories. The weekend wouldn’t be complete without a cosplay competition. You can rock your outfit in the background or show off your stuff on the Cosplay Catwalk. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox.