Melbourne comedian Elijah Dries is aiming to change that with a regular free stand-up comedy show at the GV Hotel in Shepparton starting March 12.
Mr Dries said lovers of a laugh shouldn't have to travel all the way to Melbourne to see quality stand-up.
“There’s hundreds of shows in Melbourne but once you get out past the suburbs they dry up,” he said.
“Which is sad because I think there’s a keen audience in regional Victoria that love a regular chance to have a laugh.
“The show will be monthly and we’ll be bringing Melbourne International Comedy Festival regulars plus some up-and-comers you may not have heard of but will soon.
“It’s a great way to get warmed up for the festival without the long drive or having to pay for a hotel.”
Mr Dries said other regional centres were having regular stand-up shows that were proving a hit with the audience.
“Ballarat has two regular shows that I’ve performed at and they’re both a fantastic night out,” he said.
“Like most things, the comedy dried up during the pandemic and there’s been a lag bringing it back, especially in regional Victoria.
“But I think people are ready to get out and about again and are looking for something new to do.
“We’re all still feeling the impacts of COVID-19 and I hope this night is a chance for people to forget about things and have a well-earned laugh.”
The show is on March 12 at the GV Hotel, 223 High St, Shepparton. Doors open at 7pm.
For tickets and more information, visit gvhotel.com/book-a-table or head to the GV Hotel Facebook page.
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