Ararat Rural City Council is encouraging residents to gather their friends, book their seats, and get ready for a night of laughs when the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow returns to Town Hall Ararat on Thursday 21 May 2026.
Australia's biggest comedy festival is once again hitting the road and bringing a hand-picked line-up of comedians to regional audiences, with Ararat one of the tour stops. Hosted by Dane Simpson, the Roadshow will feature Grace Jarvis, Oliver Coleman, Rowan Thambar, and Ting Lim in a fast-paced evening of stand-up, stories, and plenty of surprises.
The show will run from 8 pm to 10.20 pm at Ararat Town Hall, including a 20-minute interval, giving people time to catch up with friends and enjoy a night out in the heart of Ararat.
Ararat Rural City Council Chief Executive Officer, Dr Tim Harrison, said it was great to see the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow back in Ararat.
"Events like this are exactly what our community tells us they want more of," Dr Harrison said. "We know people are busy and budgets are tight, so having a top-quality comedy line-up right here at Town Hall Ararat makes it easier for locals to enjoy a night out without having to travel to Melbourne. Council is really pleased to support this show, and I would encourage everyone to grab a ticket, bring a few mates, and have a great night in our city."
"Town Hall Ararat continues to punch above its weight when it comes to live performances, and this Roadshow is another opportunity to showcase what we can do as a regional centre," he said.
For almost three decades the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow has been touring across Australia, taking comedy legends and fresh faces to audiences near and far, and this year Ararat residents can experience the festival atmosphere in their own backyard. Council is encouraging people to secure their tickets early to avoid missing out.
Tickets and further information are available via the Town Hall Ararat website. https://ararattownhall.com.au/event/melbourne-international-comedy-festival-roadshow-2026/
