The Grindstone Comedy Festival is set to return to Edmonton, Alberta, from July 3 to July 7, 2024, for its highly anticipated fifth year. This annual event brings together a diverse lineup of local, national, and international comedy acts for an unforgettable five days of improv, sketch, and stand-up comedy.
Featuring over 50 talented artists, the festival boasts both indoor and outdoor stages, a lively beer garden, tantalizing local food trucks, enriching workshops, and a plethora of shows to catch. From seasoned veterans to up-and-coming stars, the Grindstone Comedy Festival promises something for everyone.
Past editions of the festival have welcomed renowned performers such as Scott Thompson, Jon Dore, Nikki Payne, Chris Locke, Sophie Buddle, Peter Oldring, Ryan Belleville, Neema Naz, Che Durena, Ken Hall and many more.
This year, audiences can expect stellar performances from a lineup that includes Bruce McCulloch, known for his work with the legendary sketch troupe The Kids in the Hall, Debra DiGiovanni, one of Canada’s top comic darlings often remembered by 90s kids for making fun of music videos on Much Music’s Video On Trial, Dave Merheje, the 2019 Juno Award winner for Comedy Album of the year, and Bonnie McFarlane a long time Alberta ex-pat who the Huffington Post listed as the number one funniest female you should know. Meanwhile in the improv department of the festival This Hour Has 22 Minutes’ Chris Wilson and Murdoch Mysteries’ Clare McConnell join Grindstone Theatre’s own The 11 O’Clock Number to make up full length musicals on the spot.
One special highlight of this year’s festival is a fundraising event scheduled for Sunday, July 7, dedicated to supporting comedian Kathleen McGee, a native of Edmonton and co-founder of the festival. Kathleen’s journey with cancer has been a rollercoaster of resilience and determination. After initially overcoming colon cancer in December 2022, she faced a recurrence that spread to her liver, abdomen, and lungs. Despite the challenges, Kathleen continues to share her unapologetic and dark sense of humour with audiences worldwide.
The fundraiser aims to raise funds to fulfill Kathleen’s bucket list wishes and provide her with comfort during her battle with cancer. Headlined by Bruce McCulloch, who is not only a featured performer but also actively involved in organizing the event, the fundraiser promises to be a heartwarming and hilarious evening in support of a beloved member of the comedy community.
Kathleen McGee’s impressive comedic resume includes appearances at Just for Laughs, CBC Debaters, and SiriusXM Top Comic, among others. She hosts her own popular podcast, “Kathleen McGee Is A Hot Mess,” and co-hosts the “Dead Baby Bear” podcast. With her unique style and undeniable talent, Kathleen has earned a dedicated following and the admiration of her peers.
Bruce McCulloch, a multi-talented actor, comedian, writer, and director, brings his wealth of experience to the festival. Best known for his work with The Kids in the Hall, Bruce has also made significant contributions to television, film, and stage. His one-man show, “Dark Purple Slice,” premiered in February, adding to his impressive repertoire.
For tickets and more information about Grindstone Comedy Festival visit grindstonecomedyfest.com
