The Territory's Own Comedy Debate 2.0

The Territory’s Own Comedy Debate returns for a hilarious showdown that sets Darwin’s best comedians against each other over two nights.

Comedy Debate 2.0 isn’t your standard comedy night, it’s an interactive event built on three crazy ideas: you, the public, get to vote on the topic, the debate teams will switch sides and there’s a wildcard spot on the panel. 

In a fitting nod to the ancient Greek debating tradition, this year’s Comedy Debate has set up camp in the old Greek Consulate in Darwin’s CBD. From here, the Top End’s most seasoned performers are running a series of free workshops. Whether an absolute beginner or an experienced performer looking to try a new skill, participants will create their own comedy performance.

Producer and Debate MC Liz Rogers says it’s this aspect that makes this year’s Comedy Debate unique. 

“What’s particularly exciting about this incarnation is the community engagement. I truly believe everybody is funny and with the workshops people have the opportunity to hone their skills and gain the confidence to perform.”

One outstanding participant will also get to battle it out with the professionals, filling a wildcard spot on the debate team. 

For Rogers, debate is an especially accessible format and appeals to wide range of people.

“Debate presents comedy to an audience in a different way to the usual stand-up. It requires quick thinking and strong punch lines, as well as a convincing argument. Hilarity ensues, because it’s back and forth – it’s a fight!”

This year Ryan McArthur and Ange Wu return as team captains – and these two have history! Also taking sides is the sassy no-holds-barred Constantina Bush and the coolly calm, but oh so dangerous, Gail Evans. 

Who will win? You decide!

Workshops | Sat 2 & 9, Thu 14 Dec | 30 Austin Lane, Darwin | Free | Bookings Essential

Comedy Debate | Fri 15 & Sat 16 Dec | 7pm | 30 Austin Lane, Darwin | See the event listing