British Comedy Guide

British comedians who have played New Zealand

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Britain and New Zealand enjoy a strong and enduring relationship rooted in shared history, cultural ties, and mutual values. As former colonies of the British Empire, New Zealand and Britain have long-standing connections that span political, economic, and social spheres... and also, might we suggest, the type of humour we like.

When it comes to entertainment, Kiwis have plenty of options to choose from. Options include spending a night in playing online casino games (with a generous Casino bonus NZ on offer), to heading to the cinema. Many choose live comedy though.

In New Zealand, a country with a keen appreciation for humour, several British comedians have not only made their mark but have also enjoyed significant success touring the nation. Here, we spotlight four British comedians who have captivated New Zealanders with their comedic styles.

Eddie Izzard

Eddie Izzard

Eddie Izzard is renowned for her surreal and stream-of-consciousness style, blending historical references, whimsical tangents, and sharp observations. Her performances are a mix of intellectual humour and absurdity, delivered with a charismatic stage presence.

Izzard has garnered a loyal following in New Zealand, with her tours frequently selling out. Her unique ability to weave complex narratives and her fearless approach to comedy resonate deeply with New Zealand audiences. Tours like Force Majeure and Wunderbar have been particularly well-received, cementing her status as a beloved international comedian in the country.

John Bishop

John Bishop

John Bishop's comedy is perhaps characterised by affable storytelling and relatable anecdotes, which are drawn from his own life experiences. His down-to-earth approach and ability to find humour in everyday situations endear him to a wide audience.

Bishop's tours in New Zealand have been marked by enthusiastic receptions, with his shows often attracting large crowds. Tours like Supersonic and Winging It have showcased his talent for connecting with audiences through humour.

Jimmy Carr

Jimmy Carr. Credit: Matt Holyoak

Jimmy Carr is known for his razor-sharp wit, deadpan delivery, and dark humour. His shows are packed with quick-fire jokes, clever one-liners, and a willingness to push the boundaries of comedy.

He is famous all over the world nowadays, including in New Zealand. His tours, including Funny Business and The Best Of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits Tour, have travelled to that part of the world. Despite the edgy nature of his humour, Carr's impeccable timing and fearless approach have earned him a dedicated fan base in NZ.

Sarah Millican

Sarah Millican

Sarah Millican is known for her warm, self-deprecating style and candid discussions about everyday life. Her ability to turn personal stories and observations into relatable monologues has made her a standout in the comedy world.

Millican's tours in New Zealand have been met with considerable acclaim, with audiences appreciating her honest and down-to-earth approach. Her offerings, such as Outsider and Control Enthusiast, saw strong ticket sales and enthusiastic responses when they visited New Zealand.

Published: Friday 14th June 2024

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