This festival will make you laugh, cry, and maybe ask: ‘Wait, what did I just watch?’

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF) is an annual event held in Melbourne, Australia, celebrating various forms of comedy. The festival showcases local and international comedians, bringing laughter and entertainment to audiences from around the world. Here's a closer look at some of the acts and events that are part of this year's MICF lineup:

1. Norwegian Clown: One of the unique acts at this year's MICF is Norwegian clown, Olav Kuksen. Olav is known for his dark and absurd humor, which often involves elements of physical comedy and audience interaction. He has performed in various festivals around the world and is sure to leave audiences scratching their heads in wonder and amusement.

2. Josh Thomas' Return to Stand-Up: Australian comedian Josh Thomas is making his return to stand-up comedy at the MICF after a successful run with his TV show "Please Like Me." Thomas is known for his observational humor and storytelling abilities, which have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. His shows are always sold out, so be sure to secure your tickets early.

3. International Acts: The MICF attracts comedians from all corners of the globe. Some of the international acts performing this year include American comedian and podcast host, Marc Maron; Canadian comedian and actress, Ali Wong; and British comedian, James Acaster. Each of these comedians brings their unique style and perspective to the stage, making for a diverse and entertaining lineup.

4. Workshops and Masterclasses: In addition to the performances, the MICF also offers workshops and masterclasses for those interested in learning the art of comedy. These sessions provide valuable insights into various aspects of comedy, from writing and performance to producing and marketing. Some of the workshops this year include "Writing for Comedy" with Adam Zwar and "Stand-Up Comedy Masterclass" with Wil Anderson.

5. Special Events: The MICF also features various special events throughout the festival. These include the "Comedy Gala," which is a star-studded event featuring some of the biggest names in comedy; the "Comedy Festival Club," which offers late-night shows and comedy experiences; and the "Comedy for Kids" shows, which provide entertainment for the whole family.

With such a diverse lineup of acts, workshops, and special events, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is sure to provide laughter, tears, and moments of confusion in equal measure. Be sure to check out the festival's website for the latest updates and ticket information.