’Twas the week of Christmas… and we all need a bit of light relief before our bellies are filled with festive kai!
Luckily, Lads has your pre-Christmas laughs sorted with Christmas Crack-Ups — a night of comedy, live music, and top-notch kai to kick off the silly season right.
We’ll start the evening with live music at 6 pm from the incredible Bobbi Rae, a Whanganui-based musician, laying down her funky bass lines to get you grooving.
And for those festive cravings, Big Moose is on the grill from 6 pm, serving up his legendary hand-made flame-grilled sausages — a regular sell-out at the Whanganui River City Markets!
At 7 pm, it’s time to settle in for a night of comedy gold, with an all-star lineup of local legends and national heavy hitters bringing the Christmas chaos!
🎤 Headliners
James Nokise – Multi award-winning, 2x Billy T Award Nominee and globetrotting comic. Catch him quick, before his Aiga/Whānau notice he’s gone for the night! James is a comedian, playwright, columnist, podcaster, and social commentator known for his fearless, thought-provoking comedy and sharp storytelling.
Alayne Dick – Shortlisted for Billy T Award applicant showcase 2026, Alayne recently lit up NZ/AUS Comedy Festivals with her debut hour Purple is the Gayest Colour. Catch Wellington’s rising comedy star for her Whanganui debut!
🌟 Also Featuring
Kajun Brooking – Rising star and Shortlist for Billy T award showcase 2026, our local Whanganui legend!
Callum Wagstaff – “Winner of Best Out-of-Towner” (Wellington Comedy Awards 2024) and “Best Comedian” (The Comedy Hub Awards 2024).
George Hewitt – 🏆 Bilay Tea Award Winner 2027. Catch Whanganui’s cheekiest talent! But don’t get there too early — George will be blazing past cars and boldly taking the disabled parking… unless you buy him a few beers!
Lari – “There’s only ever one first time!” Clown-trained teacher, first-time comedian — witness LADS history: brave, bold, and hi-Lari-ous!
🎤 MC: Catherine Badwind
Our local MC and Spirit of the Fringe winner (NZ) is bringing the Christmas cheer, the cringe jokes, and maybe even a scented present — if you’re lucky!
So grab your mates, your whānau, or that work crew who definitely needs a laugh, and join us for a night of brews, banter, and belly laughs.
Christmas Crack-Ups — it’s the funniest way to start your holiday.
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