The Aloha State is about to get a heck of a lot funnier as the Hawaii Comedy Festival rolls back into town for its 11th year, infusing the Honolulu Museum of Art's Doris Duke Theatre with belly laughs and jovial spirits. With a steadfast commitment to showcasing local talent, this year's fest is gearing up to deliver original comedic works that promise to tickle funny bones and light up the stage—because who doesn't need a good laugh?
Kicking off this coming Friday, Honolulu's comedic aficionados can plunge into "Live From Honolulu: A Night of Musical Comedies," where local writers' fresh musical comedies will soar to life at 7 p.m. including a little on-the-spot genius from Improv Hawaii's musical improv. "This year's lineup is packed with brand-new shows that prove once again why laughter truly is the best medicine," actor Kimee Balmilero, founder of the Hawaii Comedy Festival, shared with Hawaii News Now.
But the guffaws don't stop there, because come Saturday, those looking for a daytime chuckle can catch the "Family Friendly Improv Comedy Show" at 3 p.m., where everyone is welcome, it's for all ages. This high-energy spectacle cleverly weaves audience suggestions into rolling-on-the-floor-worthy scenes, and not to be outdone, the promising young talents from La Pietra Hawaii School for Girls will join in the improvisational theatrics. Evening show tickets will run you $35, while families can delight in the afternoon fun for just $10 per child and $15 per adult.
As the sun sets on the festival, "Two Scoops Funny: A Night of Original Sketch Comedy" emerges to close things out with sketches penned by Honolulu's finest, rib-tickling stand-up courtesy of Ian Shippen, toe-tapping live tunes from Keahi Delovio, and improv antics featuring Improv Hawaii and special guest Mele Apana—now if that's not a comedic sundae with all the toppings, what is?
All hilarity culminates within the storied walls of the Doris Duke Theatre, an emblematic venue nestled in the creative heart of Honolulu. Further details about the fest, including behind-the-scenes tidbits and a sneak peek at the original musical comedies You're The Werewolf, Kindergarten Registration, and Taurus, That's Bull, were shared by Kimee Balmilero and writer-actor Dylan Chace Lee during their appearance on Living808, as per an interview with KHON2.
