Brisbane Comedy Festival is back, bringing a star-stunned lineup of over 130 artists across four venues from 23 April to 25 May.
A festival highlight is the return of beloved comedy character, Bob Downe, who will bring his new show, CHOOSE BOB! 40 Ridiculous Years, to the Brisbane Powerhouse from 25-27 April.
Bob Downe: A Comedy Festival Veteran
Bob described himself as “a comedy festival veteran” since being nominated Best Newcomer at the inaugural Melbourne Comedy Festival in 1987.
“I’ve done 18 (count ‘em) Edinburgh Fringes and the same number in Adelaide and Melbourne,” he said.
“Brisbane Comedy Festival is special because it’s on a smaller scale and the Powerhouse makes a magnificent main venue to hang out and see your comedy chums. I love it.”
The creation of Melbourne-born comedian, singer, actor and journalist Mark Trevorrow, Bob Downe made his debut in 1984 at Sydney’s Glebe Food Fair. His career has included many television appearances in the UK between 1988 and 1999.
“I had several of my own shows – in fact, many more than I ever managed here at home!” Bob said. “Go figure. One of the highlights would be the 1995 Royal Variety Performance, filmed in London in front of Her Late Majesty the Queen and Phil the Greek. I made them laugh. And she spoke to me in the lineup! (She asked if she could see a valid work permit.)”
With years of touring under his belt, Bob said he had learned “so much”.
“Just how difficult those little motel soaps are to open, how roomy disabled toilets are to change into costume in, how much weight you put on because there’s only kebabs and Chiko Rolls available to eat after a show…and how much you realise you’re actually missing your dogs!” he said.” Oh, and your hub too.”
CHOOSE BOB! promises a comedy concert with a mix of 80s songs, stand-up and plenty of surprises along the way. When asked what he hoped audiences would take away from his show, Bob said, “LOTS of merch”.
“Those CHOOSE BOB T-shirts and tea towels are going to fly off the table,” he said. “But I’ll still pose for a selfie if you don’t buy anything. I just won’t smile.”
Joining Bob in this year’s packed Brisbane Comedy Festival lineup are performers like Tom Allen, Arj Barker, Adam Kay, Ross Noble, Jimeoin, Effie and Joel Creasey. Some shows are already selling out, so book now!
For more information, tickets and the full schedule, go to www.brisbanecomedyfestival.com
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