The Sydney Comedy Festival is returning to Penrith after a successful first year in 2025.
It’s set to be bigger and better this year, running over six weeks with an additional 20 shows.
“Last year, the Sydney Comedy Festival realised there was such a huge audience for comedy in Penrith,” said The Joan’s Toby Chapman.
“We’re excited to have some of the biggest headliners across the entire comedy festival here to share their comedy and their shows with Penrith.”
This festival follows the Biennale of Sydney – a major contemporary art festival – that found a home at Penrith Regional Gallery.
“It’s been really great timing to have the Biennale at Penrith Regional Gallery and now to have the Sydney Comedy Festival returning to The Joan,” he said.
“It shows that we’re on the map – not only in Penrith or in western Sydney, but also in greater Sydney overall.”
Chapman said it can be difficult to remind people outside of Penrith that there is an audience for arts and culture in our region.
“If I had to categorise Penrith locals, I would say they have a really good sense of humour and that they have a really clear idea of what they like and what they don’t like,” he said.
“It’s really encouraging to see that ticket sales are going well, and to see someone like Kyla Cobbler come to perform. She has such a unique voice and is such an empathetic comedian.
“Her first show sold out, and so we’ve added a second show. To have those acts that clearly connect with our audiences is great.”
One of this year’s returning comedians is Luke Heggie, who mingled with the crowd after his shows last year.
“I did two shows last year, and I’m doing the same this year. I can’t wait,” Heggie stated.
“I really love the venue, and for comedy, people don’t leave their suburbs as much anymore, so you have to go to them.”
The festival will start on April 21 with the Sydney Comedy Festival Gala.
Visit www.thejoan.com.au for tickets and details.
