COMEDIANS

Tommy Tiernan

Tommy Tiernan adds another date of his ‘World Tour of Galway’ to treat #GCF26 audiences to his brand-new stand-up show, featuring this most singular comedian’s latest “wild yarns, philosophical detours” (Irish Examiner) and “good humour, high energy, insatiable curiosity and fearlessness” (RTÉ). It’s already been a great year for the honorary Galwegian, having won Irish Comedian of the Year for the second year in the Hot Press Readers Poll 2026, while his RTÉ chat show also enjoyed its landmark 10th season.

"A titan of Irish comedy"

— The Guardian

Emma Doran

Due to phenomenal demand, smash-hit comedian, best-selling author, podcast host and viral online star Emma Doran has added a second show during this year's Galway Comedy Festival. There's no such thing as a perfect family, but she wouldn't want one anyway... The many trials and tribulations of Emma's blended family are laid bare, womanhood examined, and relationships put to the test in this witty, rambunctious show from one of Ireland's most beloved stand-ups. Strap in for a night to remember, jam-packed with razor-sharp observations, riotous on-stage antics and conspiratorial gossipmongering. As seen and heard on No Worries If Not! (RTÉ 2), The Tommy Tiernan Show (RTÉ 1), LOL: Last One Laughing (Prime Video) hosted by Graham Norton, The Late Late Show (RTÉ), Celebrity Gogglebox (Virgin Media One), Modern Love (Prime Video) alongside Kit Harrington, The Deirdre O'Kane Show (SKY), Bridget and Eamon (RTÉ), Callan's Kicks (RTÉ), Republic Of Telly (RTÉ) and Ireland's Fittest Family (RTÉ), while her podcast credits include: You're Grounded with daughter Ella, And Another Thing! with Muireann O'Connell and the four-part series Mischief Makers. Emma currently co-hosts the podcast Keep It Tight alongside fellow stand-up and LOL: Last One Laughing contestant Deirdre O'Kane. Emma is also author of best-selling book, Mad, Isn't It? published in 2024.

"End-to-end laughs... you'd be mad to miss her"

— Bruce Dessau, Evening Standard ★★★★

Dara Ó Briain

Dara Ó Briain is one of Ireland's most celebrated comedians and broadcasters, renowned for his razor-sharp wit, quick-fire improvisation and ability to turn any audience interaction into comedy gold. After the huge international success of his previous tour, So, Where Were We? — which sold out 173 shows across 20 countries and was named UK Comedy Tour of the Year 2023 by Chortle — Dara returns with his new live show, RE:Creation. A master storyteller and one of the finest stand-up performers working today, Dara's live shows are a thrilling mix of intelligent comedy, spontaneous audience interaction and laugh-out-loud storytelling. Daily Telegraph 50 Funniest Comedians of the 21st Century.

"His set is a masterclass in intelligent, no-frills stand-up"

— The Guardian

Rhys Darby

Audiences may know Rhys Darby as the hapless band manager Murray in Flight of the Conchords, gentleman pirate Stede Bonnet in Our Flag Means Death, or from turns in Jumanji, Yes Man, and The X-Files. But it's live and unscripted where Darby truly comes alive — gloriously odd, endlessly inventive, and never quite doing what you expect. Five stand-up specials deep, with a novel, children's book, and podcast to his name, Rhys brings his singular brand of chaos back to Galway. Expect flights of fancy, deadpan asides, and comedy that goes places you didn't see coming.

"He’s got that Peter Sellers madness inside him"

— Jim Carrey

Deirdre O’Kane

Calling Deirdre O’Kane The First Lady of Irish Comedy is no overstatement. She is undoubtedly “Ireland’s number one funny woman” (Extra.ie) blessed with a “unique star quality” (The Guardian) who is “hilariously funny with ineffable charm” (Image Magazine). She will bring these sparkling qualities to #GCF26 where she will be appearing at the Festival’s ever popular mixed bill nights.

"Applause follows her all the way down the street"

— The Scotsman

Jack Dee

Jack’s back! The great man is marking 40 years in comedy in 2026, and Galway Comedy Festival is part of that milestone anniversary. Galwegians can look forward to a master comic who “turns grumpiness into an art form” (The Evening Standard) and whose “put-upon, misanthropic persona” always results in “an entertaining evening” (The Scotsman). He has appeared on Have I Got News for You, QI, The Apprentice: You’re Fired, The Apprentice: You’re Hired, and comedy series Josh.

"Grumpy was always Dee’s best tune… you name it, Dee’s teed off about it, sometimes to a sublime degree"

— The Guardian

The Kavanaghs

They’re living in despair (room). A hilarious new Irish comedy about Generation Stuck – the adults who thought they’d only be living with their parents for a few months… until life got in the way. Packed with big laughs, family chaos and razor-sharp observations, The Kavanaghs: Married with Parents is a brand new farce from Al Porter and Karl Spain. Al and Ryan only moved back in with his parents for six months. That was six years ago. Now, with Al’s parents preparing to fly to Germany for a wedding, the happy couple are finally about to have the house to themselves… or so they think. As suitcases pile up, secrets unravel and unexpected guests keep arriving, one ordinary weekend in Tallaght spirals into glorious chaos in this fast-paced comedy about family, love and the generation that can’t quite leave home. Starring Aisling O’Neill (Fair City’s Carol), Phelim Drew (Once, Remembering Ronnie), Al Porter (Perrier nominee), Ryan Andrews (Fair City) and top comics Willa White and Enya Martin. Directed by Christine Scarry, The Kavanaghs: Married with Parents is a brand new Irish comedy you’ll want to bring the whole family to!

Georgie Carroll

Georgie Carroll is back with her brand-new show, INFECTIOUS. An undeniable live comedy powerhouse and a natural storyteller, she's razor sharp and riotous. Nurse-turned-comedian, Georgie Carroll is not only brilliantly funny, she is unstoppable on the comedy circuit having performed her smash hit award winning show Sista Flo 2.0 for three solid years of sold out seasons (UK, NZ, AU).

"Really funny... just brilliant"

— Simon Cowell

Serena Terry

This Derrywoman’s comedy, via stand up, viral videos, and a novel have made her an in-demand comedy performer across Ireland, selling out such venues as Belfast’s SSE Arena and Dublin’s Olympia Theatre. Serena first came to prominence through her hugely successful online comedy ‘Mammy Banter’. She has since transitioned effortlessly to the live stage. With her sharp observational stand-up and relatable storytelling – with its hilarious insights into modern family life, relationships, and the everyday moments we all recognise – Serena has built a reputation for comedy that is warm, authentic, and irresistibly funny.

"Utterly hilarious! Born for it"

— Aisling Bea

Mike Wozniak

The new stand-up tour show from Mike Wozniak in which a story about a bench will be prominent. Previous experience of or strong opinions about benches not required. Let Mike worry about that. As seen on Taskmaster, Man Down and Junior Taskmaster. As heard on Three Bean Salad podcast.

"Deliciously distinctive fun... The story of Wozniak might be the shaggiest of shaggy dog stories you will ever hear"

— The Evening Standard

Vanessa Larry Mitchell

Fabulous, filthy and downright hilarious! Australian comedian, Vanessa Larry Mitchell returns to Galway with her 2 hour comedy special: Teardrops on My Dildo: The Endurance. Declared “the funniest thing we've ever seen” by Perth’s Fringe Feed, this is two hours of comedy that will have Galway audience’s jaw aching, cores tightened, and pants wet! Little wonder she was the 'Best Stand-Up' Newcastle Fringe 2026 award winner 2026 and Australian Club Entertainment of the Year Nominee 2026.

"★★★★★ “…the delivery is flawless and the laughs are constant and side-splitting”"

— Kids in Adelaide

David McSavage

David McSavage is back on the road and heading for Galway this October Bank Holiday weekend. Promising a show of “One mic. One hour. Zero apologies”, he advises Galway audiences to “bring thick skin and a sense of humour”. Whether it’s musing while strumming a guitar, wandering off on a mind-bending tangent, or delivering his singular perspective on the world, McSavage has been making people laugh — and occasionally call their solicitors — for over two decades. You have been warned. And invited.

"David McSavage is the comedian’s comedian"

— Irish Independent

Paddy McDonnell

Belfast comedian Paddy McDonnell started his career in 2011 and shortly after was supporting acts like Des Bishop and Ardal O’Hanlon. McDonnell has since built a strong reputation across the UK and Ireland by turning everyday observations into hilarious anecdotes. Paddy largely bases his comedy on tales of working as a taxi man, alongside everyday stories of being a husband and father. To date, McDonnell has had five solo shows, with his Dagger show being the highlight of the Belfast Belly Laughs Festival in 2015, selling out and garnering 5-star reviews. Paddy is a regular performer at all the main Belfast comedy nights, has hosted The Empire’s “Belfast Laughs Back” comedy club, and was the first comedian to have played the West Belfast Féile six times. He has shared the stage with acts including Frankie Boyle, Jason Manford, Paddy Kielty and Andrew Maxwell. Paddy has previously sold out solo headline shows at Belfast venues such as Limelight, Ulster Hall, The Waterfront Hall and two SSE Arena shows. Autumn 2026 promises more success when he tours his brand new show, Gout’s Out , nationwide. In this hilarious new show, Paddy talks about getting older, dealing with gout, and the perils of still trying to act like a young man through boxing and raising kids.

Emer Maguire

Tyrone’s Emer Maguire is a double IMRO Award winning, four-time TEDx speaker, who has been declared the “indie Victoria Wood” by the BBC and been included in the Top 10 New Comedy Talent by Channel 4. Her sharp storytelling, inspired musical comedy, and gloriously chaotic honesty about life as an autistic adult has seen her sell out the Ulster Hall, Mandela Hall and MAC Belfast, while Channel 4 has commissioned her to write and star in the sitcom Socially Awkward.

"One of the most unique comic prospects in the country"

— Daily Mirror

Adam Burke

Declared “one of Ireland’s best known funny men” by Hot Press, Adam is a regular host of global phenomenon Bingo Loco and The Laughter Lounge in Dublin. Founder of Hardy Har Comedy Club and Bray Comedy Festival, comedy fans will also know him from hosting the Electric Picnic and All Together Now comedy arenas. With The Sunday Independent noting Adam is “teetering on the edge of the mainstream”, #GCF26 is your chance to catch him up close and personal.

"Fast, fearless and hilariously quick on his feet, Adam turns every show into a ‘no holds barred’ comedy riot."

— The Laughter Lounge

Ian Coppinger

Since emerging as part of the Irish alternative comedy boom of the 1990s, Ian has remained one of our busiest comedians, regularly playing packed houses at the Edinburgh, Melbourne, Montreal Just for Laughs, Glasgow, Galway, Dublin, Adelaide and Wellington comedy festivals. A first-rate improviser, Ian is a co-founder of The Dublin Comedy Improv (est. 1992), where he still performs every Monday night in Dublin’s International Bar – Ireland’s longest-running comedy club.

"A top-tier headliner, Ian Coppinger's self-deprecating humour and impeccable crowd manipulation make him a standout"

— Fringe World

Joe Rooney

Joe Rooney’s unforgettable turn as gurrier priest, Fr Damo, in Father Ted, forever sealed his reputation in Irish comedy. That’s not the only string to Joe’s bow. This multi-talented stand-up, actor, screenwriter, musician and podcaster has performed everywhere from Moscow to Muscat, including at the Edinburgh Fringe, Glastonbury, and Kansas City Irish Festival, as well as festivals around Ireland. On his Podarooney podcast he has interviewed actors and comedians. He also co-hosts the Father Ted podcast, Talking Ted, alongside Patrick McDonnell.

"Occasionally laconic, at times infectiously manic, and always riveting"

— Hot Press

Stephen Frost

The towering comedy icon Stephen Frost claims his comic career goes all the way back to the day he was born: “I started very early. When I was born my mum said to the doctor, ‘Stop joking, where’s the baby?’”. Since then he has become an improv legend, pulling the strings and announcing the games, taking audience suggestions and deciding when a sufficient level of breathless hilarity has been reached before moving on. He has appeared in Whose Line Is It Anyway?, The Young Ones, Ted Lasso and Blackadder.

"A veteran improviser"

— Chortle

Steve Steen

The only man who can rival Stephen Frost as an improvisational comic, Steve is an indispensable member of Stephen Frost’s Improv All Stars and a firm favourite with our Festival’s audience. He has worked with Rory Bremner and Paul Merton, and appeared on Whose Line Is It Anyway? and Have I Got News For You, not to mention that unforgettable turn in Eastenders as alcoholic children's entertainer, Magic Marv. On stage, Steve has portrayed Charles Dickens and John Belushi.

Spencer Jones

Spencer Jones, the “madcap inventive comedian (Beyond The Joke), returns to Galway with his new show, DOGS. “It’s for people who love dogs and for people who don’t”, says Spencer. “There’ll be all new characters, stupid songs, visual comedy, stories and maybe an answer to the question: Are dogs better than humans?” The double Edinburgh Comedy Award and double BAFTA-nominated Spencer is known for his chaotic, joyous brand of physical prop comedy, papier-mâché masks, and live music looping. As well as DOGS, he will also perform his Experimental Kids Show to thrill kids & grown-ups alike.

"A delightful selection pack of silliness"

— Chortle

Maureen Langan

This New Jersey native rose to prominence on America’s Got Talent, where her stand-up even had Simon Cowell declaring, “Maureen is so funny! So fearless!”. A former broadcaster, interviewer, and satirist at Bloomberg TV & Radio, she now thrills comedy audiences across North America, Europe, and South Africa, with intelligent rants on life’s absurdities. She has also performed with the late Robin Williams, feminist icon Gloria Steinem, and soul star Gladys Knight.

"Very engaging, very empowering. Her humor uplifts and is inspiring"

— New York Times

Danny O’Brien

A crowd favourite at Galway Comedy Festival, Danny O’Brien is a whirlwind of vibrant energy, having performed 200+ live festival shows this year alone – from The Melbourne International Comedy Festival to a complete sell-out run at the Edinburgh Fringe. Match-fit for #GCF26, he is more than ready to light up the stages of the City of the Tribes this October with his razor-sharp wit, inspired anecdotal style, and expert storytelling. Regularly headlining top comedy clubs and major festivals across Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, Danny is proudly putting Irish comedy centre stage on the global map!

"O’Brien is genuinely, uproariously funny with a huge stage presence and wicked timing"

— The Sunday Independent ★★★★★

Micky Bartlett

#GCF26 welcomes back ‘The Lurgan Legend’ who describes himself as “a natural stand-up with more than a touch of Billy Connolly”. This, allied to his relatable stories, razor-sharp punchlines, endearing honesty, and natural storytelling ability, have made him one of Northern Ireland’s most beloved comics, with an ever growing fanbase in the Republic as well. With 5,000+ gigs and numerous 5-star reviews under his belt, no wonder beyondthejoke.co.uk called him “a rock-solid sure-fire stand-up who is going to get the crowd quaking with laughter”.

"A masterful way of delivering with punch and style"

— Chortle

Aideen McQueen

Aideen is a comedian, musician, and Gaeilgeoir, but describes herself as “a woman who’s been through just enough therapy to monetise her emotional chaos”. This “naturally charismatic” (The Skinny) performer returns to #GCF26, following a successful run at the Edinburgh Fringe, sure to treat Galway audiences to “many laugh out loud moments” (Scottish Field). Aideen appears regularly on RTÉ, TG4, BBC Northern Ireland and has numerous writing credits with BBC Radio 4.

"A rising star of the comedy scene"

— One4Review.co.uk

Andrew Maxwell

The double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and one of Ireland’s favourite storytellers, Andrew Maxwell is returning to home soil to do what he does best – find the funny in everything going on in this crazy world today and, let’s be fair, being damned good at it. Often referred to in his score of first-rate reviews as one of the most skilful comics of his generation, Maxwell has long been at the top of his game. His expertise in finding the perfect balance between humour and insight in any given situation, his lightning quick wit and his fierce intellect have ensured that he remains the King of Comedy long after he was crowned by Channel 4.

"A consummate performer, he’s still streets ahead of many of his contemporaries and as such, is always a must-see"

— The European

Barry Murphy

Barry Murphy is a true pioneer in Irish comedy. With Ardal O’Hanlon and Kevin Gildea, he co-founded The International Comedy Club in Dublin, which became the breeding ground for the Irish alternative-comedy boom of the 1990s, the repercussions of which still echo today. One-third of Aprés Match, his turns as Frank Stapleton and Liam Brady were nothing short of inspired, while his German character, Günther, is a brilliant means through which we can laugh at the absurdity of what we often think of as normal in Irish society.

"The Godfather of Irish Comedy"

— The Irish Times

Terry Alderton

Making a welcome return to #GCF26 is a comedian with a multitude of personalities, and an off-beat brain. Terry’s comedy combines an array of voices and characters, often in competition with each other, and with Terry himself – think a solo singer singing three part harmony on his own. Winner of The Malcolm Hardee Award for Comic Originality, The Times praised Terry for his “dizzying inventiveness”, while Eddie Izzard proclaimed him a “very funny comic with a fantastic comedy mind”.

"The inner workings of Terry Alderton's manic mind are a scary thing to contemplate - but side-splitting to witness"

— NZ Herald

Karl Spain

Karl is the host with the most — the “achingly funny” (Sunday Times) MC’s MC – whom no Galway Comedy Festival can do without. His mischievous crowd-work, pulling stories from the audience and spinning them into comedic gold, sets the tone for the whole night. No surprise, really: Karl writes so much material for other comedians that you’ve probably laughed at his jokes without even knowing it.

"Karl is criminally underrated"

— The Irish Times

Bernard O’Shea

Stand-up comedian, broadcaster, and bestselling author of My Wife is Married to a Feckin’ Eejit, Bernard O'Shea returns to treat Galway audiences to “left-field imaginative but not up its arse lovely comedy” (Hot Press) from a man who is a “fizzing, iridescent ball of sheer energy; a fast-talking, fast-thinking comedian who invigorates a room with his presence” (Chortle). He has co-hosted RTÉ 2FM’s Breakfast Republic and co-wrote and starred in RTÉ’s hit series The Republic of Telly and Bridget & Eamon.

"Reminds you how extraordinary stand-up can be"

— The Scotsman

Sharon Mannion

When Deirdre O’Kane cites herself as one of your fans, when Rosie O’Donnell calls you “fabulous and hilarious”, and Emma Doran declares you “the best there is”, you know you’re doing something right – and Sharon Mannion certainly is. She has played every Irish comedy festival; was Concepta on the hit comedy series, Bridget & Eamonn; and won a Writers Guild of Ireland Zebbie Best Radio Script Award for her RTE Radio 1 play Stuck.

"Brilliant, mischievous, catch her while you can"

— Neil Delamere

John Colleary

It’s always a treat to see the multi-talented John Colleary onstage. This stand-up, writer, and actor is a favourite at Ireland’s top comedy clubs and festivals. He also co-wrote and starred in the IFTA nominated RTÉ shows, The Savage Eye and Irish Pictorial Weekly. Other TV credits include Stand & Deliver: Live from Róisín Dubh, The Panel, and being part of The Gusset Brothers on The Tommy Tiernan Show. John also scooped an IMRO Award for his topical sketches on Today FM’s The Last Word.

"John Colleary is my favourite comic, I learned so much from him… playful, inventive and brilliant. The best"

— Tommy Tiernan

Al Porter

Always a firm favourite with Galway audiences, the dapper Dubliner will appear on various guest spots and mixed bills at #GCF26, and he will also be involved in a new venture as well – as playwright. Along with Karl Spain, he has written the new theatre show, The Kavanaghs: Married with Parents, starring Al himself, and a host of names from Irish comedy and TV. Chortle has praised Al’s stand up for being “delightfully smutty…full of joyous camp”. We’ve no doubt his new play will be a similar comedic treat.

"A steamroller crowd-pleasing talent"

— The Guardian

Steve Wrigley

Steve is a veteran stand-up comedian and professional D&D Dungeon Master whose career spans two hemispheres and countless dice rolls. The New Zealander’s mix of improv, absurd storytelling, and heartfelt punchlines makes him one of the country’s most recognisable comedic voices. In recent years, he has carved out a niche with his one-of-a-kind Dungeons & Dragons-inspired crowd work—blending live storytelling, epic worldbuilding, hilarious riffs, and spontaneous audience interaction in a format unlike anything else in comedy.

"Honest, wicked and imaginative"

— TheatReview

Faulty Towers: The Dining Experience

Basil, Manuel and Sybil are returning to Galway—and they’re bringing a healthy dose of mayhem to your door. Fully immersive, highly interactive and completely original, this is the show where anything can happen and usually does—and with 70% of the show improvised, it’s never the same twice. With two hours of comedy, three courses of food, and universal acclaim the world over, expect chaos, laughs, and a brilliant night out. Don’t be fooled by any cheap imitations, experience the world’s ♯1 experience today!

"The cast played a blinder"

— - Irish Times

Darragh Bourke

A rising star on the comedy circuit, Darragh won the 2025 Show Me the Funny competition and also claimed runner-up at Bray Comedy Festival’s Best New Act Award as well as House of Comedy’s Amateur Comic of the Year. Darragh is known for his sharp timing, quick-fire delivery, and delightfully silly jokes that keep audiences laughing from start to finish.

Silent Disco at Róisín Dubh

One of Galway’s favourite nights out and a Tuesday night institution at Róisín Dubh, the Silent Disco is the place to sing your heart out to crowd-pleasing anthems, classics, and guilty pleasures. Get your headphones on the way in and switch between the two DJs to see who is playing the songs you most want to sing and dance to. Need a break? Take off the headphones and marvel at the bizarre spectacle of a room packed with people dancing and singing different songs, often decidedly off-key, to an absolutely silent soundtrack.

Jess Collins

Dubliner Jess describes herself as a “6ft, politically incorrect, opinionated, sometimes sexy bird, who enjoys the laughter”. Over the past six years, she has gone from seeing her favourite Irish comics to sharing the stage with them, playing Electric Picnic and Galway Comedy Festival along the way - and Jess loves Galway: “What I've always said about Galway is the gigs lend themselves to having some of the most wonderful people in their audiences.” We most certainly agree.

Sinéad Quinlan

This Corkonian made the completely rational decision to enter a stand-up comedy competition having only ever done stand-up twice. That was RTÉ One’s Stand Up & Be Funny, and Sinéad only won it! She has since written and starred in her own online comedy series, Seriously, Sinéad?, which was given a second series on TV, and she has performed in comedy clubs and festivals across Ireland. She is also a regular warm-up act for The Late Late Show and a host of various Irish TV programmes.

"Ireland's newest comedy queen"

— Irish Independent

Chris Watts

The embodiment of blonde ambition, Chris has become one of Ireland’s most promising young comedians, having only started his stand-up career in 2021. Already he has played such leading venues as Róisín Dubh, In Stitches Comedy Club, Workman’s Club, and The Laughter Lounge. He won the coveted Toilet Duck Award at TedFest 2023, performed alongside Dylan Moran, and worked with Karl Spain, Danny O’Brien, and Deirdre O’Kane.

"Wish I’d written that…"

— Barry Murphy

Martin Maloney

Fans of The Hardy Bucks will rejoice to hear that Martin - who played Eddie Durkan on the show - is coming to #GCF26. With this Irish cult comedy classic returning to RTÉ for six episodes this Autumn - and in the year Mayo finally won the Sam Maguire again - there has never been a better time to catch up with this co-creator of The Hardy Bucks phenomenon in the first place. Expect a rabid collection of observations from recent years on the hustle (like a Jack Russell), unfettered irreverence, tunes that’ll tickle your tassels, and impressions that’ll knock your loafers off.

Brinsley McNamara

Brinsley McNamara is the content creator, author, and adventurer behind Weird Ireland, where he travels all up and down the country documenting the fascinating and unique places, stories, customs, and histories that make Ireland weird.

Bernard Casey

Since his first live comedy gig at UCC RAG Week in 2011, Bernard has sold out shows at the INEC, Vicar Street, and Cork’s The Everyman Theatre, along with venues in London, New York, and Boston. The Kerry native’s online comedy videos have +15 million views resulting in +130,000 social media followers. His passion for comedy and acting also led to the creation of his hugely popular Drama Workshop for secondary schools students in Ireland.

"The future may be a mystery but for Bernard Casey, it's sure to be a bright one"

— Irish Independent

Aidan Killian

Aidan Killian left a corporate banking job for a very good cause - to save the world, one endorphin at a time, through his spirited comedy and charismatic stage presence. The financial sector’s loss is laughter’s gain as his politically charged sets have seen him play seven Edinburgh Fringe Festivals; become a ‘highlight’ at Glastonbury 2016; and be nominated for Best Comedian at The World Fringe 2017. He has been spreading and sharing laughter on stages all over the world since.

"★ ★ ★ ★ Hysterical... passionate, driven intelligence"

— Chortle

John Conneely Inc.

John Conneely Inc. shuffle through musical genres with ease and with a setlist that spans decades, ranging from big band arrangements of Django Reinhardt, Nina Simone and Cab Calloway to rollicking, jazzy versions of songs by Portishead, The Beatles and a whole lot more. You never know where the night is going to go, so let John and his multi-cultural lineup of some of Galway’s finest musicians take you on an extraordinary musical odyssey.

"Offering music fans an ideal way to finish their weekend. Or indeed, kick-start their week"

— Connacht Tribune

Jay Fitz

About four years ago, Jay became a comedian by accident and doesn't know how to stop. Having come close to winning several awards, including Show Me The Funny 2026, Jay has decided that awards aren't that important and you really shouldn't have brought it up. Always manic, often upbeat, usually clean, and sometimes educational - Jay holds true to honest, traditional, Queer values. Let's make comedy weird again!

Seán Begley

Winner of Best New Act at the 2018 Bray Comedy Festival, shortlisted for the RTÉ Stand Up and Be Funny competition in 2019 and recent Dublin Story Slam champion.

"I can count on him to make me laugh"

— Dave Moore, Today FM

Jess Spencer

A fresh talent on the Irish comedy circuit, Jess Spencer is a presenter on SPIN 1038 and SPIN South West, hosting the music shows and the bilingual and Irish-language show Homegrown Irish. She is also the winner of Cheeky Monkey’s St. Patrick’s Day competition 2026.

Justin Cassidy

Monaghan’s Justin Cassidy is a farmer-turned-comedian who has been performing his bone dry, deadpan stand-up for the past four years across Ireland, the UK, Europe and all the Americas.

Louise Burchall

Join Louise Burchall for Laughter Yoga, a genuinely interactive and contagious group activity which is silly, social, and totally ridiculous. With separate classes for families and adults, this proves that comedy is the best medicine for your mental and physical health.

CroíACT

The third annual CroíACT (pronounced “Craic’d”) will see ten brave souls step outside of their comfort zone to perform stand-up comedy in aid of local charities Croí and ACT for Meningitis.  For 2026, the Festival is asking the public to get behind this year’s performers who will be under the expert tutelage of Karl Spain for weeks leading up to the big night. CroíACT is a unique fundraiser, combining laughter and heart with community spirit.  This year's performers are... Laura O’Connell:  is an Irish comedian, writer and co-host of the award-nominated podcast Oh Right, Yeah, known online for finding the funny in motherhood, marriage and the general indignity of being a woman in her forties. Adrian "Aido" Devane:  Having tried everything else from bingo calling to singing - from wine sommelier to film producing - from barman to computer sales - from supermacs to teddybear inventions. All he promises us that he will turn up. Nono McHugh & Sharon Egan (Double Act):  One Made History. One Sells Houses. Neither Has a Game Plan! Cameron Cruickshank:  Ready to prove Scotland has good craic. Olivia Breene:  She grows businesses, builds brands, curates experiences, and talks for Ireland. Commercially minded, creatively wired, and now comedically unverified; let’s hope this strategy pays off. Jack Masterson:  A fresh face on the comedy scene, Jack Masterson hails from Mayo and previously reached the final of Show Me The Funny. Conor Graham:  After a lifetime spent in hospitality, Conor is trying his hand at comedy, what could go wrong? Fergus McGinn:  I'll take part on one condition, they move the comedy Festival to City Hall Louise Lally:  I have a lot of stories from retail. My solicitor says I should stop there.

Laura O'Connell

Laura O’Connell is an Irish comedian, writer and co-host of the award-nominated podcast Oh Right, Yeah , known online for finding the funny in motherhood, marriage and the general indignity of being a woman in her forties.

Dane Frisby

Dublin-based Dane Frisby started stand-up in Estonia 3 years ago while travelling, since then, he’s been throwing himself around the world performing over 300 shows in about 30 countries. In 2025 he sold out three nights in the Dot Theatre & the Mill Theatre for WIP shows. In February he brought his debut hour back to Tallinn where he began. He's recently been made a regular in the Laughter lounge and has opened for the likes of Chris Kent, Neil Delamere, Al Porter, Willa White and David McSavage. He is the host of Step Inn Comedy in Stepaside.

Eddie Mullarkey

Galwegian Eddie Mullarkey is a rising name in Irish stand-up, thanks to his deft, top-notch crowd work and interaction as well as his engaging storytelling approach to observational stand-up.

"The comedian’s interaction with the crowd creates the stand-out moments, as it showcases his improv skills, and also makes the set feel more tailored to the audience"

— Three Weeks Edinburgh

Patrick McDonnell

He will forever be iconic for his role as Eoin McLove, the Daniel O’Donnell spoofing country singer on Father Ted (“I have no willy!”), but Patrick has enjoyed a long career in stand-up comedy and is always a welcome guest at Galway Comedy Festival. He has been a feature on iconic comedy shows like Naked Camera, The Young Offenders, Chris O’Dowd’s Moone Boy, and David McSavage’s acclaimed The Savage Eye. He also co-hosts the Father Ted podcast, Talking Ted, with Joe Rooney.

"One of Ireland's funniest actors and comedians"

— Irish Independent

Kevin Gildea

Along with Barry Murphy and Ardal O’Hanlon, Kevin Gildea is a pioneering figure in Irish alternative comedy. “Highly original and explosively funny” (The Sunday Times), he has played all the major Irish festivals and is a regular at The Edinburgh Comedy Festival. An award-winning playwright and short story writer, Kevin has been a script editor for many TV comedy shows and made memorable appearances in Bridget & Eamonn and Father Ted.

"Brave, unafraid and compelling… and very, very funny"

— Tommy Tiernan

Casey Gothard

Aussie comic Casey Gothard is known for her sharp, brash and unapologetically risqué comedy. With an acid tongue and quick wit, she's become a staple on the late-night club circuit, delivering hard jokes with even harder punchlines. Fearless, funny, and ferociously fast on the mic, Casey’s stand-up leaves no topic untouched and no heckler unscathed.

Kat O’Hanlon

Kat started doing stand up in Buffalo, NY way back in 2011. Since then she has performed all over the world…or rather all over the United States and Ireland. Now living in rural Ireland with her feral-toddler, craggily-stinking rescue dog, and her husband - who has politely requested not to be described. Her material covers the topics of marriage, motherhood, the algorithm and buying lube in rural Ireland.

Risteárd Cooper

A spanking new solo comedy show bursting with razor sharp impressions, sketches and absurd imaginings from the co-creator of Après Match. Cooper’s first live solo show takes on the heady subjects of the world around us now, then, and in the future, and draws no obvious conclusions! Covering topics like what’s happening? Why is it happening? Where did it all go wrong? And who cares? Featuring skits from the world of TV, “Journalism”, Politics, The Arts, Entertainment and Sport. Expect a dizzying mix of various personalities in this unmissable show.

Enya Martin

Enya began her comedy career with her Giz a Laugh online sketches (400,000 followers to date) exploring working class life in Dublin. Equally adept as a stand-up, she has since become a popular and regular performer in Ireland’s best and biggest comedy venues and Festivals. As well as appearing on various mixed-bills at #GCF26, Enya will also have a role in The Kavanaghs: Married with Parents, written by Al Porter and Karl Spain.

"Regarded as one of the best live stand-up comedians in Ireland"

— Scenestr

Ellie Horgan

Ellie Horgan’s comedy style is cheeky, raunchy and for the gals, the gays and the theys. Over the past two years, Ellie has travelled the country poking fun at men and speaking on topics like audio-erotica, navigating dating in the modern world and transforming into an absolute ride in her thirties.

The Dirty Circus

Step right up, if you dare. The Dirty Circus are fresh from another iconic appearance at Electric Picnic to take the helm of Galway's saucy Halloween celebrations, as part of Gaillimh Ah-Boo! 2026. Enter a twisted world of wicked performers, dark seduction, burlesque stars, drag queens, pole devils & much more. The lights are low. The music is sinful. And the night is just getting started. Leave your good behaviour at the door and prepare for a night of chaos, temptation and twisted fun. 

Shawn Uyosa

Shawn is a Nigerian-born Irish comedian who has been making waves in comedy since he was 17. He was selected for the regional showcase of the 2021 and 2022 BBC New Comedy Awards, and won the Best New Act competition at the 2020 Bray Comedy Festival, and The Comedy Cavern’s Cork Comedian Of The Year in 2023. Shawn has been heard on RTÉ Radio and on RedFM in Cork, and played the character Barry in a series of sketches for Office Girl on the RTÉ Player.

"Excitable and extremely engaging with the audience… attendees were in fits of laughter"

— Limerick Post

Tommy McCarthy

Tommy McCarthy is a former boxer from West Belfast who swapped the ring for the stage, turning his life experiences into storytelling comedy. With a unique mix of humour, honesty and Belfast character, Tommy brings his stories to life through stand-up and live performance. His journey from boxing to comedy was featured in the BBC documentary Punchline: Fighting for Laughs.

Darren Gaffney

Gaffney is a rising star of Irish comedy who has already made waves running the Bite The Bullet Comedy Club across Dublin and Cavan. After storming sets at the Edinburgh Fringe and Galway Comedy Festival, Gaffney has become a fixture in Ireland’s top comedy venues, supporting some of the biggest names in the country. With a storytelling style that is as sharp as it is chaotic, Darren Gaffney is quickly proving that the quietest parts of the countryside produce the loudest laughs. Darren has also lit up social media amassing millions of views and with over 40k followers on Instagram and TikTok. With some of his clips featuring online platforms including Lad Bible. He is also the man behind the successful ‘The Gaff Cast’ podcast in which he discusses the issues of the day in a humorous and lighthearted tone.

Senan McAllorum

Senan quickly became a familiar face in the Dublin comedy scene. His sharp wit and engaging performances have earned him spots in renowned venues in the UK and US such as Up the Creek, Backyard Comedy Club, Vulcan Theatre in Texas, The International, and the Craic Den in Ireland. In recognition of his comedic talent, Senan was shortlisted for the prestigious BBC Newcomer of the Year Award in 2025.

Enda Whitney

Enda Whitney has performed all over the world including South Korea, Edinburgh and New York. He has worked with stars of Comedy Central in America and many big names of Irish Comedy. Proud to be a Longford born Galway comedian and Co-founder of Red Line Comedy Club, Enda will bring you around the world and down to earth with his energetic style of comedy.

Rob Nother

Rob Nother is a Dublin-based comedian and MC whose style blends sharp observational comedy with engaging storytelling. A regular at The International, The Craic Den, and The Comedy Crunch, Rob has also supported Emma Doran and Adam Ray at Vicar Street and performed at the Paddy Power Comedy Festival and Galway Comedy Festival. In the UK he won the Panel Award at the Beat The Frog World Series 2025 as well as picking up the runner-up prize from the audience vote.

Taran O’Sullivan

Taran O’Sullivan is an Irish comedian, radio presenter, and content creator from County Meath. A regular voice on RTÉ 2FM, she’s known for her sharp storytelling, relatable observations, and energetic stage presence. She has performed at comedy clubs and festivals across Ireland and has opened for Irish comedian Emma Doran. She has built a growing online audience with her humorous take on modern life, dating, and all the awkward moments in between.