The Sydney Comedy Festival returns to Chatswood with a star line-up
Laughs will fill up the The Concourse Chatswood, and other venues across the city from 13 April to 17 May, as the Sydney Comedy Festival makes its annual return.
The festival brings comedians from all over the world to our shores. From established standup comedians, to stars who got their start in comedy on TikTok or Instagram reels, there’s something for all generations enjoy.
Long-time comic Georgie Carroll, better known as Nurse Georgie, is looking forward to returning to the festival this year with her show, Infectious. “Seeing all the other comics is great, because I tour individually, so I’m usually on my own,” Georgie says.
“Every now and again you see someone when you go around the traps, a bit of a new brain that you like.”
Nurse Georgie will be bringing the ‘staff room banter’ from her previous job in the emergency room. Her show included personal anecdotes, healthcare absurdities, and everyday family chaos. While Georgie was born in the UK, she currently calls Adelaide home. “I’ve been described by critics as ‘someone that doesn’t try to crowbar or point these shows, she doesn’t lecture.’ I just want to make people laugh, have an hour off,” she says.
“It’s a pointless show, it’s just a joy. My entire self-esteem is built off hearing other people laugh, so you get what you come for – joy.”
This year, The Concourse will see plenty of performances from well-known comics. Greek comedy goddess, Effie Stephanidis (AKA Mary Coustas) will return with a new show, along with fellow Australian comedians Akmal, Celia Pacquola, Dave Hughes, Josh Thomas and Dave Thornton.
Jenny Tian, who is fresh off touring the USA, will also appear with her show When Life Gives You Oranges.
Children will have a ball at the festival too with the Great Laugh in the Park day on Sunday 19 April at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour. Hosted by former Giggle and Hoot star Jimmy Rees, the day will feature live performances, with Bingo from Bluey, Diver City and the Kids Comedy Gala – there will even be a free showbag for the first 1000 kids.
If you can’t make it to any of the live events, not to worry! The Hayden Orpheum will be running a one-night-only official showcase of the top picks from the 2026 festival on 12 May. It sells out quickly each year, so be sure to grab tickets as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, the closing ‘night of nights,’ the End of Fest Gala, will be ‘a dazzling night of laughs at the spectacular Enmore Theatre,’ on 17 May. The Gala will feature a ‘carefully curated lineup’ of the finest comedians at the festival to close out the event, so be sure to book in if you want the last laugh.
Georgie has only one piece of advice for anyone attending the festival: “Watch as much as you can!”
SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL
13 April to 17 May
The Concourse Chatwood and other venues