5 Star Comedy Preview
5 STAR PREVIEW
8+
World Class Comedians
2hrs
Non-Stop Laughs
20+
Years a Crowd Favourite
About The Show
It's been a crowd favourite for over 20 years — a fresh All-Star Preview of international festival guests alongside local heroes. Eight or more world class comedians packed into one huge two-hour showcase.
Your chance to sample some of the world class laughs you'll be able to see at The Classic Comedy Club and beyond during the three-week Festival to follow.
Warning: Always sells out.
Who's Who in the 5 Star Preview 2026
One of the hottest tickets on the world tour right now. Sold out everywhere else with only 7 shows in Auckland in 2026. Must see.
"Big laughs, engaging tales, you're seduced by the easy authority of his storytelling" – The Guardian
In 2026 he is 'trying his best' — and when your comedy career spans 40 years, you have a lot of BEST to draw from. Don't miss an absolute Festival legend at The Classic and beyond.
"…not just comedy but soul-quenching storytelling at its finest." ★★★★★ – Ed Fest Mag
A crowd favourite following numerous visits to NZ pre-Covid. We've finally got Jimmy back for a welcome return, headlining a number of shows across the first week of the Festival.
She had a stunning debut at the 2025 NZ Festival, winning the award for Best International Act — so a return by public demand is a given. Elouise will be all over this year's fest, but catch her first in the 5 Star.
After making a big impression on debut at the NZ Fest in 2025, Danny returned home to be hailed as one of the best solo shows at the 2025 Edinburgh Fringe. We had to invite him back with his award-winning show.
"Wow, just wow! A talented writer and storyteller… my must see of this year's fringe" ★★★★★ – One4Review
A fast-rising star on the UK pro tour, Jessie makes her NZ debut in 2026. Must see.
"Make no mistake, Nixon is destined for greatness" – The Evening Standard
First time in NZ, combining a huge profile on TikTok and Instagram with acclaimed award-winning shows at the 2024 and 2025 Edinburgh Fringe. Much in demand — but we've got him to NZ.
"So bleakly funny… you felt winded" – The Guardian
Local hero represents in the 2026 5 Star before bringing his brand-new solo show, STICK, to The Classic in week three of the Festival.