kavisolo.

Summer brings about a lot of great things to Toronto, and the Just for Laughs comedy festival is one of them. There are a lot of great acts performing this year and it’s a shame that you can’t get to them all. In that case, I’ve highlighted some performers that I think are worth seeing and might also be easy on the wallet!

John Cleese
There are a few big names showing face at the festival this year, but the John Cleese is definitely the main draw. The guy is a legend and if you’re one of those people that love to quote Monty Python films, then this show will probably be great.

Being pretty popular, I’m sure this one will sell out fast. He’s hosting one of the main events, so I’d suggest getting on that.

Jimmy Carr
I’ve found Carr to be a great funny man. A Brit with some crazy one liner jokes that really make you think – point is, he’s good. I’d put him on my list for sure.

Dundas Square
The great thing about the festival is that they have free performances at Yonge & Dundas square. Easy on the wallet and a great venue in the heart of “Times Square Lite” to enjoy a summer evening. From past experiences, the place gets packed but there is plenty of room to find a good spot. A lot of people opt to stand across the street near the Sears for the best view – I guess you could get a good view of everything from there.

Second City Toronto
The popular improv troupe that has churned out stars like Michael Keaton and John Candy has a theatre in Toronto. The Toronto stage is playing host to a bunch of various acts, but the real gem here is the in house improv group. I’m not sure if it’s part of the Just for Laughs festival, but their current show, 0% Down, 100% Screwed is a great little sketch show poking fun at all sorts of current events. The prices here are favourable, and if you’re a student you can grab some sweet deals.

*Added bonus: I have two free passes to a Second City Toronto show up for grabs. If you’re interested, respond with your best joke and the winner gets the passes! The joke about the girl with no arms and no legs doesn’t count.