The Vodafone Comedy Carnival is returning to Galway this October, running for seven days from Tuesday October 20 to Monday October 26.
The spectacular lineup features iconic international stars like Dylan Moran, Jason Manford, Rich Hall, and Nina Conti, as well as a massive selection of comedy genres. If you like it thoughtful, then Stewart Lee is coming to town; thoughtful and dark, then try Andrew Maxwell.
How about the knockabout madness of Jason Byrne and PJ Gallagher, or sketch supremos Foil Arms and Hog and rising star Al Porter. TV stars like Phill Jupitus, Shappi Khorsandi, Terry Alderton, Tiffany Stevenson, Seann Walsh, Aisling Bea, and Hal Cruttendon will also be in attendance.
The musical genius of Beardyman and improvisional skills of Abandoman and Rich Hall’s Hoedown will delight, as will homegrown heroes like Ardal O’ Hanlon, Après Match, David McSavage, Colin Murphy, and Bernard O’ Shea.
Karl Spain, Patrick Kielty, and Deirdre O’Kane are on the way, as well as brilliant oddballs such as Paul Currie and The Two Johns. A North American contingent includes Letterman star Eddie Brill, raucous Canadian Mike Wilmot, and Tanyalee Davis.
Fresh and up and coming comedy talent will also be given an outlet to perform, including Steve Bennett, the Comedy Cocktails Crew, and Páraic Breathnach.
Last year’s Spiegeltent Paradiso venue was the hit of the festival. This year another Spiegeltent, 'Idiolize', will be pitched in Eyre Square, ensuring revellers will never be far from the action.
Festival director, Kevin Healy, said: “We have spent the last year tracking down and booking the very best comedians in the world. We went after the ones that make us laugh the hardest regardless of genre. That’s why we have such a wonderful spread of styles to celebrate our festival turning 10 years old.
"As Galway ramps up its bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2020, I’d like to thank Galway City Council for allowing us to occupy Eyre Square with our flagship venue, the Spiegeltent. They have really done their bit to put comedy centre stage in Galway this October.
"With their help and the galaxy of comedic talent performing, I hope we have a festival whose success will reflect strongly on the city and enhance Galway’s bid to be recognized for the uniqueness and richness of it’s culture.”
The full line-up for the festival will be online today at VodafoneComedy Carnival.com, with all tickets on sale Monday, August 31.
