Ten days, around 31 headliners, four theaters and 14 venues — the 13th annual Moontower Comedy Festival returns to Austin this Wednesday, bringing along laughter, skits, improv and rising comedy stars.
The festival will run April 9-19, featuring over 120 comedians all within walking distance of each other in downtown Austin. Other than Speakeasy on Congress Street, the venues are 18+ and open to anyone holding a club badge that can be purchased online. This year features many on-screen personalities including a live Dr. Phil show, Don Reed and Janell James. UT alumna and Paramount Theater marketing manager Tori Schulze said the festival’s many stages offer something for everyone.
“There’s such a wide (range) to choose from,” Schulze said. “Whether you’re into musical comedy, sketch, improv (or) queer centric, there is something for everyone.”
Additionally, Schulze said the performance’s proximity to campus is a great way for students to get involved and experience so much of the comedy scene.
“You get to see these comics in their prime,” Schulze said. “Our programs are really good at securing talent for the festival who are not only well-vetted and amazing in their craft, but also on the rise.”
Zach Zucker, executive producer and host of the show “Stamp Town,” will be performing in his show for the festival. He said in the festival world, people often forget about comedy and opt for music and film instead, despite comedy festivals being similar and having aspects that may be better than another festival setup.
“The cool thing with (Moontower) versus (Austin City Limits is that) where everyone has one time slot there, we’re performing every night, so you can go back and bring people,” Zucker said.
Joslyn Escobedo, biology freshman and self-claimed comedy connoisseur, said laughing is one of the best ways for students to relax during stressful times.
“It’s a good way to look for an outlet to relax for college students as we’re in our finals season,” Escobedo said. “It’s a good way to have a laid back, fun time and not have to worry about school, work or anything.”
As this is Zucker’s fourth Moontower, he said students should prepare to see things never seen before.
“You’re gonna be rowdy and wild and laughing till your body hurts and cheering until you lose your voice,” Zucker said. “You get to see a lot of exciting, established performers do their thing and see them in a more intimate setting where you wouldn’t be able to.”
