‘Biggest year yet’ for festival as comedians take centre stage

MORE than 25 comedians from seven countries will descend on Co Tipperary this weekend for what’s become one of the most popular comedy festivals in the country.

Now in its fourth year, the Bulmers Comedy Festival at O’Keeffe’s in Clonmel will showcase the best of Irish and international comedy over four days from Thursday to Sunday.

Regulars who are now familiar faces at the Clonmel festival include Jason Byrne, PJ Gallagher, Colin Murphy, Keith Farnan, Dead Cat Bounce, Gearoid Farrelly and Karl Spain.

Meanwhile, some of the hottest tickets from this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival are also making the journey, including Best Newcomer award-winner Roisin Conaty, along with runner-up, The Boy With Tape on his Face.

Comedy rap sensations Abandoman, Celia Pacquola from Australia, character comedian Tom Binns and comedy musical act Kev Orkian will also be there.

Others include star of the Michael McIntyre Roadshow, Ava Vidal, camp kilt-wearing Scot Craig Hill, Russell Brand-alike Eric Lampaert, and festival favourite Patrick Monaghan.

Director Fergal O’Keeffe said: “We are getting a reputation at the Edinburgh Fringe for breaking new comedy talent in Ireland so this has enabled me to bring top upcoming and established comedians from England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia this year. This is looking like our biggest and best year yet.”

Bulmers brand manager Marcus Goodwin said the festival is showcasing “some of the best of world-class comedic talent from home and abroad”.

The festival box office is at Hearn’s Hotel in Clonmel or on www.clonmelcomedy.com.