Malthouse Comedy returns for Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Southbank’s Malthouse Theatre is set to host a stellar roster of local and international guests as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF) from March 26 to April 20, with more than 200 shows performed over 22 nights across four stages. 

Now in its 38th year, MICF has established itself as a cultural landmark, providing a platform for comedians to showcase their craft and for audiences to enjoy world-class live comedy.

Renowned for its diverse programming, the festival continues to bring together comedy superstars from around the globe alongside Australia’s finest comedic voices.

The 2025 lineup is set to be one of the most impressive yet, featuring more than 700 performers delivering a dynamic mix of stand-up, sketch, improv, satire, musical comedy, and more. 

Malthouse Comedy is returning to Southbank as part of the festival, offering an exciting lineup of live comedy with a jam-packed schedule curated by the Malthouse team.

The program will feature a diverse array of talent, including Michelle Brasier, an award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, author, and comedian, and a one-of-a-kind performance from Elf Lyons, who will present the first-ever comedy show performed entirely by a horse.

British comedian Tom Allen will share personal stories and life updates with Australian audiences in his new show Completely, and local cabaret sensation Reuben Kaye will also take the stage at Malthouse with The Kaye Hole, a late-night variety show described as “the evil love child of Liza Minnelli and Jim Carrey”. 

Additionally, Malthouse will host the Victorian premiere of Breaking the Musical, written by Stephanie Broadbridge; an original production reimagines the story of an Australian Olympian’s path to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Upstairs in The Playbox, Malthouse will showcase some of the brightest emerging comedy talents. 

Award-winning clown Jeromaia Detto will bring his interactive and spontaneous show When I Grow Up, responding to audience suggestions each night, and rising comedian Con Coutis will also perform Escape from Heck Island.

For younger audiences, Malthouse presents Signor Baffo, a hilarious and interactive kids’ comedy.

Having entertained UK audiences since 2013, this wildly silly show turns mess-making into fun and chaos.

Festival-goers can enjoy the convenience of seeing multiple shows in one night, all while savouring delicious food and drinks in Malthouse’s outdoor courtyard. 

With the kitchen open late and food trucks on hand, there’s plenty to enjoy before and after the performances. •