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It's the festival that launched the careers of Rowan Atkinson, Jim Carrey, Adam Sandler and Louis CK. Pretty good effort for something that began as a two-day funny fest for French speakers. In the 33 years since the first Just for Laughs in Montreal, the festival has introduced English-speaking acts and become an international institution, with spin-off events from Chicago to Sydney. The best bit? It’s on its way to London and tickets go on sale today. The lineup mixes big names with street performers, magicians and art, including these four to look out for:
Jim Jefferies
He’s sweary, mouthy and came to fame thanks to a video of him being punched in the face by a heckler, which he promptly incorporated into his act. That tells you pretty much everything you need know about the Australian export. Not for the fainthearted. Logan Hall, Jul 13-15.
Gina Yashere
Bethnal Green’s Gina Yashere is killing it in America, but will return home for Just for Laughs London. Expect a sharp mix of personal stories and spot-on political gags. Logan Hall, Jul 16.
Colin Mochrie
Hypnosis meets improv. What could possibly go wrong? The ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway?’ star makes members of his audience sacrifice their free will for the sake of a laugh. The Camden Centre, Jul 18-19.
Piff The Magic Dragon
He lost ‘America’s Got Talent’ in last year’s final round, but don’t let that fool you. Piff does indeed have talent. He can do magic as well as comedy. His act includes a levitating chihuahua. The Mix, Jul 14-21 and The Camden Centre Jul 18-19.
Just for Laughs is held in various venues around London from Wed July 13-Sun July 24 2016, you can find out more details and how to book tickets here.