2011 NZ International Comedy Festival

2011 NZ International Comedy Festival

29 April - 22 May

The Ultimate Comedy Caper Announced!

The comedy gang is back. The gags are a riot. Join our hilarious mob as they blow the lid off the 2011 NZ International Comedy Festival from 29 April to 22 May.

World-famous for his numerous television appearances, live shows and genius portrayal of 'Dave' on the hit HBO show Flight of the Conchords, comedian Arj Barker (US) launches the ultimate comedy caper, as host for both the Visa Comedy Gala and Visa First Laughs opening nights.

A sell-out event for the last five years running, the Visa Comedy Gala rolls out the red carpet in Auckland's ASB Theatre on Friday 29 April for the Hollywood event of the Festival programme. Host Arj Barker is joined by: Danny Bhoy (SCOT); Mark Watson (UK); Wilson Dixon (US); Heath Franklin's Chopper (AUS); Glenn Wool (CAN); Wil Anderson (AUS, The Gruen Transfer); local bad boys Dai Henwood (7 Days), Ben Hurley (7 Days), and The Boy With Tape on His Face; and 2010 Billy T Award winner Rhys Mathewson. Filmed live for TV3, the Visa Comedy Gala offers audiences a chance to catch 20 of the best local and international acts that the 2011 Festival has on offer.

Arj Barker and his gang then head to Wellington for Visa First Laughs on Sunday 1 May at The Opera House. This thrilling line-up includes: Mark Watson; Wil Anderson; Terry Alderton (UK); Wilson Dixon; Glenn Wool; Dai Henwood; The Boy with Tape on his Face; Ben Hurley; and Rhys Mathewson.

Visa cardholders can purchase tickets to both shows prior to the general public in an exclusive Visa Entertainment pre-sale which runs from 9am on Monday 28 February until 8.55am on Wednesday 2 March.

Pre-sale ticket details are available at www.visaentertainment.co.nz

This year's Festival has 100 shows in Auckland and 60 shows in Wellington, which will be announced early March. Stay tuned for the full Festival programme by signing up at www.comedyfestival.co.nz

VISA COMEDY GALA and VISA FIRST LAUGHS - Tickets will go on sale to the general public at 9am Thursday 3 March

2011 FESTIVAL SHOWS - Tickets will go on sale to the general public at 9am on Monday 21 March

The 2011 NZ International Comedy Festival takes place:

- Auckland: 29 April - 22 May

- Wellington: 1 May - 21 May

- Comedy Convoy (nationwide): 16 - 29 May

Full line up of performances, booking details & more information; visit www.comedyfestival.co.nz

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