Welcome to the 2026 NZ International Comedy Festival - 01 to 24 May.

Check out The Classic Pick of the fest HERE. 

Direct from sellout tours of the UK, USA and Australia - just 7 shows only in NZ in 2026 - don't miss one of the fastest rising stars on the global circuit. Definitely one to watch and you only have a week to do it in.

Emmanuel’s latest show is a deeply personal yet hilariously sharp exploration of what happens when life throws its toughest challenges your way. After surviving heart failure, Emmanuel takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride through his journey of recovery, resilience, and the moments of comedy that emerge even in life’s darkest corners. With his signature storytelling style, razor-sharp wit, and undeniable stage presence, Life After Near Death is a masterclass in finding the funny in the unexpected and the power of perseverance.

Emmanuel said: “I can’t wait to bring this new show on tour! Life After Near Death is a special one for me – it’s personal, it’s raw, but most importantly, it’s funny. After an amazing time at the Edinburgh Fringe, across Europe, and in New York, I’m buzzing to take this to audiences across the UK. Get ready for big laughs and a few surprises along the way.”

One of the UK’s most in-demand comedians, Emmanuel delivers with unstoppable energy and charisma, cementing his place as one of the brightest stars in stand-up today. As a London-born comedian he is renowned for his commanding stage presence and engaging, relatable storytelling. His unique comedic voice, shaped by his own experiences, quickly garnered attention securing him multiple nominations including the Edinburgh Comedy Award for Best Newcomer in 2022 and Best Show in 2023, as well as the Chortle Award for Best Club Comedian in 2023. He has headlined BBC's Live at the Apollo and appeared on QI and Have I Got News for You. He will next be seen in the forthcoming shows The Hitlist (BBC), Silence is Golden(U&Dave) and Richard Osmond’s House of Games. This tour de force on stage continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his sharp wit and relatable humour, firmly establishing himself as a standout comedian on the circuit.

PREVIOUS PRAISE:

"Big laughs, engaging tales, you’re seduced by the easy authority of his storytelling" – The Guardian

"A natural, this stand-up is going to be big!" – ★★★★  The Times

"This man has funny bones" – ★★★★ Evening Standard

★★★★ Entertainment Now
★★★★½ One4Review
★★★★ The Comics Comic

EXTRA INFO

All presales for our shows are exclusively via Eventfinda.co.nz.
Door sales are only available on the night of the show after 6pm.
Seating is cabaret-style with options for Exclusive Tables.

BOOKINGS / TICKETS / PRICES
Prior booking, particularly for Exclusive Tables and Groups, is recommended otherwise door sales from 6 pm if not sold out.
GROUPS of any size just choose a combination of Tables and Single Admits to fit your group size. Yes you will ALL be seated together.

Mid-Week Saver / Tues to Thurs
Single General Admit - $30 (Recommended if Exclusive Tables run out or to add extra seats to an Exclusive Table)
Exclusive Table of 2 - $60 ($30 ea) -
Exclusive Table of 4 - $116 ($29 ea)
Exclusive Table of 6 - $168 ($28 ea)
Exclusive Table of 10+ - $26 ea

Premium - Friday and Saturday Night
Single General Admit - $34 (Recommended if Exclusive Tables run out or to add extra seats to an Exclusive Table)
Exclusive Table of 2 - $68 ($34 ea) -
Exclusive Table of 4 - $132 ($33 ea)
Exclusive Table of 6 - $192 ($32 ea)
Exclusive Table of 10+ - $30 ea

Bar & Ticket Office open at 6pm
Seating in the main venue commences 15 mins before the advertised showtime. All shows start on time.
Seating is allocated by tables and we fill the venue from the front.
All booked under the same name are seated together.
Call 3734321 if your arrival is delayed.

CATERING / FOOD OPTIONS:
We have a regular Bar Snack Menu which can be ordered on the night including Burgers, Loaded Fries, Kaarage Chicken, Tacos & more.
We do not offer any full meal/dining options but our festival showtimes provide plenty of time to dine before or after coming to the show.
Check out Tanuki's Sake Bar & Restaurant and Tanuki's Cave (Yakatori) which is right next door!! They have a function room for larger groups - early bookings are essential.

The Classic is a licensed bar. RP18 / Supervised.
Minors under 18 can be admitted if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Shows may contain mature adult content that may offend some people.
Anyone looking under 25 will be asked for ID in the form of NZ Driver's License, Passport or HNZ 18+ Card.
Entry will not be granted to minors, those without ID or intoxicated persons.

You obviously have good taste. Check out the full line up in the 2026 NZ International Comedy Festival with Best Foods Mayo from 1 – 24 May at www.comedyfestival.co.nz

7:00 p.m. at The Classic (Main Venue - Ground Fl)

$34 Fri & Sat / $30 Tue to Thu / Book Exclusive tables for groups of any size and save (Transaction fees will apply)