HONOLULU (KHON) — Get ready to laugh! The 11th Annual Hawaii Comedy Festival is back, bringing two nights of side-splitting performances and a family-friendly matinee featuring Honolulu’s best comedic talent.
Founded by Kimee Balmilero, the festival showcases a mix of improv, stand-up, sketch comedy, musical performances, and original works by local creatives. This year’s lineup promises brand-new shows that highlight why laughter truly is the best medicine.
Friday, September 19 – Original Musical Night
The festival kicks off at 7 p.m. with three original musical comedies written and performed by local writers and actors: You’re The Werewolf by Matthew Soriano, Kindergarten Registration by Kiyoshi Shiraishi, and Taurus, That’s Bull by R. Kevin Garcia-Doyle. The evening also features musical improv by the popular troupe Improv Hawai‘i, where every lyric and punchline is created on the spot. Tickets are $35.
Saturday, September 20 – Two Scoops Funny: Sketch Comedy Night
Saturday night’s show at 7 p.m. offers original sketch comedy by Honolulu writers and actors, stand-up by comedian Ian Shippen, live music by Keahi Delovio, and improv by Improv Hawai‘i with special guest Mele Apana. This evening promises fresh, fearless, and unforgettable comedy. Tickets are $35.
Saturday, September 20 – Family Friendly Improv Matinée
At 3 p.m., the festival hosts a high-energy, family-friendly show featuring audience-driven improv by Improv Hawai‘i. Student performers from La Pietra – Hawaii School for Girls will also take the stage, showcasing the next generation of local comedy talent. Tickets range from $10 to $15, making it a fun outing for the entire ‘ohana.
Balmilero started the festival after returning home from more than 15 years working in Los Angeles and New York. “I wasn’t ready to break up with improv and sketch comedy,” she said. “It’s been amazing to mentor and collaborate with our local community and see audiences laugh. That never gets old, it’s the ultimate treat.”
All performances will be held at the Doris Duke Theatre at the Honolulu Museum of Art. Tickets are available now at hicomedyfest.com. For more updates, follow the festival on social media at @hicomedyfest.