Big Names Confirmed For T.O.’s Just For Laughs Festival
Posted May 23, 2007 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
They’re big names and they promise big laughs. And if previous indications from other cities are any indication, they’ll likely deliver on those promises. The headliners for Toronto’s first ever “Just for Laughs” festival have been confirmed, and these stand-ups may be enough to make you sit down and take notice. Among the marquee names who’ll ensure the event turns into a laughing stock: T.O-native-turned-gameshow host Howie Mandel (top left) – who took the Deal they offered him, comedian-actor-turned-talk show host Craig Ferguson, and George Lopez, who’s free to tour now that his weekly TV show has been cancelled.
The festival is based on the long running and highly successful comedy celebration that originated in Montreal in 1983. It’s grown in stature over the years and is now one of the most respected such tours in North America. And that attracts big names. Among those also gracing the stages here: Richard Lewis and Canada’s own acclaimed Russell Peters. And there will also be some familiar faces from abroad, including Ireland’s Ardal O’Hanlon of ” Father Ted” fame.
Other names on the bill may not be so familiar but all are seasoned veterans of the circuit: John (“I say nay nay!”) Pinette, Kathleen Madigan and Alonzo Bodden — both from “Last Comic Standing” – along with Jeremy Hotz, Elvira Kurt, Derek Edwards, Greg Giraldo, Bob Marley, Bill Burr and Tom Papa. There are at least 30 overall. “It’s a luxury of riches,” gushes COO Bruce Hill of the $2.25 million inaugural show.
Toronto’s Just for Laughs is expected to be a hot – or should that be a “‘ha”-ed’? – ticket this summer. It will be held here July 26-28.
Photo Credit: Evan Agostini/Getty Images
