Comedy Zone Asia returns with newer more diverse talent, from Indian stand up Daniel Fernandes to Hong Kong screenwriter comedian Andrew Chu
After a jet-fuelled debut last year, Comedy Zone Asia is back with a handpicked cast of performers from the region to deliver expert comedy from a range of culturally diverse perspectives.
Comedy Zone Asia is an interesting glimpse into how English-language comedy is taking form in new territories – long may it continue, as the scene can only get increasingly fascinating as it develops.
This time around the team introduces Emcee Sharul Channa (Singapore), a TV regular with razor sharp wit. With an undeniable stage presence described as ‘balls of steel’ by The Sunday Times, her command of language and comedy in both English and Hindi is a joy.
Also part of the entourage this year is snake enthusiast Daniel Fernandes (India), one the the sub-continents leading English stand-up comics. With over
3 million hits on YouTube, Daniel is the voice is of his generation, tackling bold topics such as the Charlie Hebdo attacks, student suicide and the Syrian crisis. Daniel headlines Comedy Zone Asia in his Australian debut. He will also perform two very special shows, Unoffended on Saturday 16 April at Roxanne at 8.15pm and Sunday, 17 April at 8.45pm at Swiss Club.
Comedian, actor and screenwriter Storm Xu (China), hailed as ‘one of the most brilliant talents in China’ by the Sydney Morning Herald for his sharp and controversial style, is also ready to kick up a story, especially after being recently awarded the Outstanding Performance Award at the inaugural Shanghai International Comedy Festival.
Bilingual comedian Andrew Chu (Hong Kong) performs in both Cantonese and English. Andrew has been crowned the winner of Hong Kong International Comedy Festival’s Comedy Competition, a prestigious event highlighting the
brightest comics from SE Asia. He has performed in Japan, China and Australia, where he discovered his new favourite drink, milk.
Co-founder of Comedy Manila GB Labrador (Philippines) is a conversational stand-up who makes you feel like you are hearing from an old friend, with inside jokes and yarns that catch you like a tickle.
The show will be performed in English and directed by comedy legend Bob Franklin.
Venue: Melbourne Town Hall
Dates: Thursday 24 March – Sunday 17 April (No show on Mondays)
Time: 7.pm (6.pm Sundays)
Tickets: $22 – $32
Bookings: comedyfestival.com.au or by calling Ticketmaster 1300 660 013
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