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Eleven comics will step up to the microphone for the inaugural Bendigo Comedy Festival next week. Festival president Shaun Rosaia said Bendigo’s comedy scene had developed itself over the last four years. “It’s been growing with people working to support each other for good shows and opportunities,” he said. “We saw the great festival culture in Bendigo with the blues and roots festival, the Easter festival and Bendigo on the Hop and thought there was an opportunity to bring something different. “It’s very exciting. We’re pretty lucky to have some people come out Bendigo that are going onto bigger things.” EDITORIAL: Bendigo continues to show that from little rooms big events grow Bendigo comics Cody Jones, Ash Greblo, Mike Elliott, Luke Morris and Cath Styles will be part of the festival next week. “Ash Greblo and Cody Jones were at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival this year as were Ian Furze and Jamie Morgan. “Ash is now in Melbourne gigging every night at some of the biggest and most professional rooms in the city. The hard work is paying off.” “From that experience, we have developed and that's great. We can do something similar in Bendigo with a strong line-up of comedians.” Rosaia said there are some great shows lined-up. “Mike Elliott has Bendigo the Musical, which is very specific to Bendigo,” he said. “Luke Morris has a wine show that is a bit educational but very funny. Cath Styles has Accidental Cougar. She has performed in festivals at Melbourne, Adelaide and Edinburgh.” “Ash is also doing his first ever solo show and Cody is on his third solo show.” Nationally known comics Elliott Goblet, Alex Ward, Dan Connell and Logie winner Dilruk Jayasinha will also perform. “Dilruk Jayasinha won the Graham Kennedy Award for best new talent at the Logies. Alex Ward was a regular on Tonightly with Tom Ballard and Dan Connell is sort of the next Carl Barron,” Rosaia said. “(Connell’s) set at the Melbourne International Comedy Gala was recognised across the country as one of funniest sets there.” Rosaia said developing the festival was made easier with the City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Tourism and local businesses helping out. “Local council was very keen straight away and we have been working with Bendigo Tourism for ticketing and for a grant,” Rosaia said. “The Shamrock Hotel came on as a major sponsor and a lot of other businesses have been contributing as well. “All our tickets are $15 which is nice and simple. We’re confident we have a good festival and a great line-up but really hope the community gets behind us and votes with feet to see it return next year.” The Bendigo Comedy Festival is on from October 11 to 13 at the Shamrock Hotel. All tickets are $15. Visit www.bendigocomedyfestival.com.au for more details.

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