Electric Picnic is fast approaching and we are all very excited about it here in JOE.
It’s not all about the music though and here we have a look at what’s on offer in one of the most popular attractions each year, the comedy tent. With each passing year, the comedy tent at the Picnic has proved to be growing in popularity. Huge crowds throng to take their place for the Saturday and Sunday feast of mirth and giggles.
With line-ups each year featuring some of the best International and home-grown talent, this year is no different and comedy fans will be very excited to see who is on.
Making his debut at the Picnic this year is one of the biggest stars of the UK comedy scene, Simon Amstell (pic above). Probably best known in Ireland for his role as presenter on Nevermind The Buzzcocks, he is an esteemed writer and actor too. Irish audiences will be looking forward to seeing who the man The Guardian described as “The real deal, where philosophy collides with anxiety: where Heidegger meets Woody Allen”.
Another festival debutant is the man from Brighton who never seems to be not on the telly, Seann Walsh. Walsh is probably the fastest rising star in the UK. His high-energy, observational style is a real crowd pleaser and the Picnic revellers will be looking forward to seeing the man in action. He’s also a very esteemed actor and is currently starring in Channel 4’s Big Bad World. He is not to be missed.
There is plenty of Irish talent there too with appearances from the hugely popular Rubberbandits, Jason Byrne and David O’Doherty amongst others. The Rubberbandits, who count Russell Brand as one of their biggest fans, have always been a brilliant live act and continue to keep critics on their toes with their new release, none more dark and edgy than their latest release, ‘Fellas’ featuring Gabriel Byrne (video above), a deliciously dark tune for the ages.
Jason Byrne (pic above) has sold more tickets than any other act in the history of the Edinburgh Fringe which when you think about it, is a seriously impressive achievement. The man is born for live comedy and his gigs, whether they be in theatres or in tents in the midlands of Ireland, are the stuff of legend. He is quite simply one of the best live acts on the planet and he’s ours. Come on Ireland!
Another hugely popular Irishman is the brilliant David O’Doherty. Always a festival favourite, his whimsical musings and songs accompanied by his trusty Casio keyboard will ensure his slot at the Picnic will be played to an absolutely full to the brim tent. You’ll know what time it is, it’s O’Doherty o’clock!
The brilliant Abandoman (pic above) make a welcome return to the Picnic and they never do anything but take the roof off whatever venue they play such is their infectious brilliance and creativity. Described as ‘Flight of the Conchords meets 8 Mile’ they simply cannot be missed.
One of the most controversial comedians in the country, Dave McSavage is there too and like him or loathe him, he is a unique act and you just know something is going to happen when he takes to the stage. On form, he is simply brilliant and he’ll be joined by fellow Savage Eye collaborators Patrick McDonnell and John Colleary.
Probably the hottest new property in Irish comedy today are Foil, Arms & Hog and the brilliant trio just have to be seen live. You will not regret seeking them out when they are on and we’re sure that you’ll be converted as a big fan in no time when you see them perform. Absolute quality.
MC for the weekend is Kiwi Danny Dowling and you can also catch Aisling Bea and the cult figure that is Gunther Grun. The cream of the Irish Comedy circuit crop is well represented with stalwarts like Eleanor Tiernan, Chris Kent, Jarlath Regan, Colm O’Regan, Karl Spain, Colum McDonnell, Fred Cooke and our very own Eric Lalor.
There is something for everyone at the comedy tent so make sure you take time out from your music schedule to go down and have a laugh, if you can get in of course!
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ podcast – listen to the latest episode now!
