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Melbourne– Due to overwhelming demand, Cirque du Soleil announces today the extension of performances in Melbourne of its most acclaimed touring show to date, KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities™. New performances from 31 March through 13 April go on sale starting 10:00am Monday, 26 August. Tickets are available via cirquedusoleil.com/kurios or by phone at 1800 036 685.

KURIOS will premiere under a brand-new white-and-grey Big Top on 12 March 2020 at Flemington Racecourse. Written and directed by Michel Laprise, KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities is a tale in which time comes to a complete stop, transporting the audience inside a fantasy world where everything is possible. In this realm set in the latter half of the nineteenth century, reality is quite relative indeed as our perception of it is utterly transformed.

Since its debut, critics across North America, Japan and Singapore have been raving about KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities. In an alternate yet familiar past, in a place where wonders abound for those who trust their imagination, a scientist (“The Seeker”) is convinced that there exists a hidden world – a place where the craziest ideas and the grandest dreams await. Out of his curio cabinet steps an international cast of 47 artists from 17 countries, a collection of otherworldly characters made up of world-class gymnasts, acrobats, contortionists, hand-puppeteers, yo-yo wizards, clowns, actors and musicians. Together they turn the Seeker’s steampunk world upside-down as they are guided by an energetic gypsy jazz, electro swing soundtrack.

Hitting up more than 1000 clubs across all states, Open Court Sessions introduces tennis with a contemporary twist. There’s no longer the need to join a club, sign up for lessons or commit to a weekly competition.

Instead players can participate in a range of dynamic tennis activities, putting a spin on the traditional game with entertaining new formats and a variety of equipment. All skill levels are welcome and can join in the fun with no strings attached.

Open Court Sessions will be run by enthusiastic hosts who will keep things moving and ensure the fun rolls along on and off the court. All equipment is provided and players will be matched up so there’s no need to find a doubles partner. Each session includes a range of activities, with time for socialising off the court just as important as the time spent hitting a ball.

Marsden & Wood deliver an irreverent exploration of body image, tongues planted firmly in cheek.

The Anniversary by Clare Bartholomew & Daniel Tobias as part of Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2020

You’re invited to Jim and Barb’s golden wedding anniversary! After 50 years of marriage these Baby Boomers from Balwyn annoy one another so much… they literally want to kill each other.

Meanwhile, Greta Thunburg is on the TV telling them that the world is on fire and it’s all their fault.

This dissent into the disappointing abyss of toenail cuttings, stray hairs, sleep apnoea and unfulfilled dreams is layered with precision timing, nonsensical absurdity and deadpan delivery.

Multi-award-winning creators of Die Roten Punkte, Clare Bartholomew and Daniel Tobias are back with a brand-new murderously funny physical farce.

Tour the comedy nights of regional Victoria in virtual reality with a new show, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Oliver Cowen is a sweet, strange boy is excited to bring his unique blend of clown, sketch, mime and subtle anarchy to the marvelous people of Melbourne. He’s got the general air of someone who knows what he’s doing, but paired with the general anxiety of someone who has too many very specific props, and is incredibly bad at making puns but relentlessly persists anyway. It’s hard to look away as this hairy, bulbous boy throws his sweaty bod at mime walls.

Featuring music by the legendary Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot the Musical has been seen by over 12 million people worldwide. Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, it is the recipient of 85 awards internationally, including 10 Tony Awards, 5 Olivier Awards and 8 Helpmann Awards.

Based on the film of the same name, Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, gritty, heart-warming and feel- good celebration following the journey of a young boy raised in a small British mining town. Set against the backdrop of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family, the whole community and changes his life forever.

Based (mostly) on true experiences of former dentist Amir, this sketch-style narrative tells the story of Dr Ramirez, his long suffering nurse Yvette, some interesting patients and other poor buggers. Do you really know what your dentist is thinking when you’re at the mercy of his sharp instruments?

This comedy is directed by veteran TV and stage actor-director Roz Hammond who has an extensive back catalogue at the MICF, performing in 6 previous festivals as well as directing “Footy Chicks” and “These Things Happen”.

Annie and Lena’s, This is Our Pilot takes on farts, feminism and feeling good with a blend of sketch, improv and musical comedy about modern television. This show earned them a Best Comedy nomination at the 2019 Melbourne Fringe

After sell-out runs of their individual solo shows at the 2019 Comedy Festival (Fiannah de Rue’s unforgettable portrayal of tragic Carlton fans in Here Come the Blues, and Reeni Inosha’s stellar debut, Enlighten Me A Little – with extra shows added), de Rue and Inosha join forces to bring their hard-hitting sketch sensibilities in a dynamic, compelling performance.

It’s an ordinary story: hardened female detectives retire at the age of 60. Or, if you want to be strictly accurate, detectives Kel and Din enjoy just five years of retirement before having to re-enter the force to catch serial criminals and brothers, Cooney and Colby. The one obstacle getting in the way? Champagne Beach, Vanuatu.

Blue Sheilas: The One That Got Away is part prima ballerina, part Coon Cheese Factory, all life after the force. In this richly layered show, comedy duo Reeni Inosha and Fiannah de Rue unpack the hardships of friendship and the extreme lengths we’ll go to to save a relationship and solve crime.

In a dynamic and compelling performance, Inosha and de Rue present a brilliant lineup of life experiences, where viewers are taken on a journey they never thought they’d want to take of observing the truly unique lives of detectives and criminals.

It’s easy to see why the comedy duo are predicted to receive critical acclaim. Inosha and de Rue’s character work is second-to-none and, following well-received, sellout runs of their brilliant solo MICF shows in 2019, the comedians have joined forces to bring their signature storytelling, highly imaginative writing, and hard-hitting sketch sensibilities to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 2020.

“This production is a combination of physical comedy and lightning fast scene and character changes. This is a clever and spontaneous show where every line of dialogue is purposeful and designed to set up the next chapter of the story,” says Inosha.

Camilleri cometh. She’s on the way with a brand-new wagon of boisterous and invigorating characters for her third Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Fresh from a string of TV comedies and a daring 2019 show, Hannah returns to the town square to spin hair into comedy gold with a whirlwind one woman show. 50 minutes of pure, unchecked ridiculous, Coming is nuanced, new age and never the same twice.

‘Gloriously whacky… be prepared to embrace the utter ridiculousness that culminates when Hannah weaves her tapestry… get this girl an Oscar.’ Onya Magazine

The Happiest Show of the Festival!

Yewww! Ash “Big Grebby” Greblo returns to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival for his debut solo show and the happiest show of the festival ‘Happy Go Grebby!’

Last year Ash Greblo landed on the line up of a comedy night that wasn’t going well, every act before him was sad, and the audience even sadder. To save the night Ash took to the stage with the happiest jokes he had and turned it into 10 hilarious happy minutes for all. Once off stage, it was clear that if there was one thing this new comedy festival show would be, as well as funny, it was happy.

The only way this show can make you sad is if you hate watching hilarious, well-crafted jokes!

Ash has been busy performing almost every night of the week, in some of the most prestigious comedy rooms in Australia. Now, after selling out split shows in the last three Melbourne International Comedy Festivals, it’s time for his first solo hour. Get ready for a show packed to the brim with jokes about relationships, heroes, fish and most importantly what happens when you say yes to life.

Don’t miss Ash Greblo with the positive spin the world needs right now!

After sell-out runs of their individual solo shows at the 2019 Comedy Festival (Fiannah de Rue’s unforgettable portrayal of tragic Carlton fans in Here Come the Blues, and Reeni Inosha’s stellar debut, Enlighten Me A Little – with extra shows added), de Rue and Inosha join forces to bring their hard-hitting sketch sensibilities in a dynamic, compelling performance.

It’s an ordinary story: hardened female detectives retire at the age of 60. Or, if you want to be strictly accurate, detectives Kel and Din enjoy just five years of retirement before having to re-enter the force to catch serial criminals and brothers, Cooney and Colby. The one obstacle getting in the way? Champagne Beach, Vanuatu.

Blue Sheilas: The One That Got Away is part prima ballerina, part Coon Cheese Factory, all life after the force. In this richly layered show, comedy duo Reeni Inosha and Fiannah de Rue unpack the hardships of friendship and the extreme lengths we’ll go to to save a relationship and solve crime.

In a dynamic and compelling performance, Inosha and de Rue present a brilliant lineup of life experiences, where viewers are taken on a journey they never thought they’d want to take of observing the truly unique lives of detectives and criminals.

It’s easy to see why the comedy duo are predicted to receive critical acclaim. Inosha and de Rue’s character work is second-to-none and, following well-received, sellout runs of their brilliant solo MICF shows in 2019, the comedians have joined forces to bring their signature storytelling, highly imaginative writing, and hard-hitting sketch sensibilities to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in 2020.

“This production is a combination of physical comedy and lightning fast scene and character changes. This is a clever and spontaneous show where every line of dialogue is purposeful and designed to set up the next chapter of the story,” says Inosha.

Blue Sheilas: The One That Got Away is a 50-minute comedy show held from March 24th to April 5th at Tasma Terrace. Bookings are highly recommended.

A scientific and comedic investigation into the excellent world of excrement and gut bacteria. How do astronauts poo in space? Did Ancient cultures worship poo? What lurks in a gut microbiome? The answer lies within ourselves.

Hitting up more than 1000 clubs across all states, Open Court Sessions introduces tennis with a contemporary twist. There’s no longer the need to join a club, sign up for lessons or commit to a weekly competition.

Instead players can participate in a range of dynamic tennis activities, putting a spin on the traditional game with entertaining new formats and a variety of equipment. All skill levels are welcome and can join in the fun with no strings attached.

Open Court Sessions will be run by enthusiastic hosts who will keep things moving and ensure the fun rolls along on and off the court. All equipment is provided and players will be matched up so there’s no need to find a doubles partner. Each session includes a range of activities, with time for socialising off the court just as important as the time spent hitting a ball.

The Anniversary by Clare Bartholomew & Daniel Tobias as part of Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2020

You’re invited to Jim and Barb’s golden wedding anniversary! After 50 years of marriage these Baby Boomers from Balwyn annoy one another so much… they literally want to kill each other.

Meanwhile, Greta Thunburg is on the TV telling them that the world is on fire and it’s all their fault.

This dissent into the disappointing abyss of toenail cuttings, stray hairs, sleep apnoea and unfulfilled dreams is layered with precision timing, nonsensical absurdity and deadpan delivery.

Multi-award-winning creators of Die Roten Punkte, Clare Bartholomew and Daniel Tobias are back with a brand-new murderously funny physical farce.

Featuring music by the legendary Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot the Musical has been seen by over 12 million people worldwide. Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, it is the recipient of 85 awards internationally, including 10 Tony Awards, 5 Olivier Awards and 8 Helpmann Awards.

Based on the film of the same name, Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, gritty, heart-warming and feel- good celebration following the journey of a young boy raised in a small British mining town. Set against the backdrop of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family, the whole community and changes his life forever.

Based (mostly) on true experiences of former dentist Amir, this sketch-style narrative tells the story of Dr Ramirez, his long suffering nurse Yvette, some interesting patients and other poor buggers. Do you really know what your dentist is thinking when you’re at the mercy of his sharp instruments?

This comedy is directed by veteran TV and stage actor-director Roz Hammond who has an extensive back catalogue at the MICF, performing in 6 previous festivals as well as directing “Footy Chicks” and “These Things Happen”.

Hitting up more than 1000 clubs across all states, Open Court Sessions introduces tennis with a contemporary twist. There’s no longer the need to join a club, sign up for lessons or commit to a weekly competition.

Instead players can participate in a range of dynamic tennis activities, putting a spin on the traditional game with entertaining new formats and a variety of equipment. All skill levels are welcome and can join in the fun with no strings attached.

Open Court Sessions will be run by enthusiastic hosts who will keep things moving and ensure the fun rolls along on and off the court. All equipment is provided and players will be matched up so there’s no need to find a doubles partner. Each session includes a range of activities, with time for socialising off the court just as important as the time spent hitting a ball.

The Anniversary by Clare Bartholomew & Daniel Tobias as part of Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2020

You’re invited to Jim and Barb’s golden wedding anniversary! After 50 years of marriage these Baby Boomers from Balwyn annoy one another so much… they literally want to kill each other.

Meanwhile, Greta Thunburg is on the TV telling them that the world is on fire and it’s all their fault.

This dissent into the disappointing abyss of toenail cuttings, stray hairs, sleep apnoea and unfulfilled dreams is layered with precision timing, nonsensical absurdity and deadpan delivery.

Multi-award-winning creators of Die Roten Punkte, Clare Bartholomew and Daniel Tobias are back with a brand-new murderously funny physical farce.

Featuring music by the legendary Elton John, book and lyrics by Lee Hall, choreography by Peter Darling and direction by Stephen Daldry, Billy Elliot the Musical has been seen by over 12 million people worldwide. Acclaimed by audiences and critics alike, it is the recipient of 85 awards internationally, including 10 Tony Awards, 5 Olivier Awards and 8 Helpmann Awards.

Based on the film of the same name, Billy Elliot the Musical is a funny, gritty, heart-warming and feel- good celebration following the journey of a young boy raised in a small British mining town. Set against the backdrop of the 1984/’85 miners’ strike, Billy’s journey takes him out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class where he discovers a passion for dance that inspires his family, the whole community and changes his life forever.

Based (mostly) on true experiences of former dentist Amir, this sketch-style narrative tells the story of Dr Ramirez, his long suffering nurse Yvette, some interesting patients and other poor buggers. Do you really know what your dentist is thinking when you’re at the mercy of his sharp instruments?

This comedy is directed by veteran TV and stage actor-director Roz Hammond who has an extensive back catalogue at the MICF, performing in 6 previous festivals as well as directing “Footy Chicks” and “These Things Happen”.

Hitting up more than 1000 clubs across all states, Open Court Sessions introduces tennis with a contemporary twist. There’s no longer the need to join a club, sign up for lessons or commit to a weekly competition.

Instead players can participate in a range of dynamic tennis activities, putting a spin on the traditional game with entertaining new formats and a variety of equipment. All skill levels are welcome and can join in the fun with no strings attached.

Open Court Sessions will be run by enthusiastic hosts who will keep things moving and ensure the fun rolls along on and off the court. All equipment is provided and players will be matched up so there’s no need to find a doubles partner. Each session includes a range of activities, with time for socialising off the court just as important as the time spent hitting a ball.