Funny Tonne: EOIs Now Open!

Think you’ve got what it takes to write the best comedy reviews? Melbourne International Comedy Festival is looking for budding reviewers and arts critics to throw their hat in the ring for Funny Tonne, proudly supported by ArtsHub. 

Since 2005, Melbourne International Comedy Festival has challenged die-hard fans of funny to dive deep into the Festival program and pen engaging show reviews. 

Armed with a pen and a coveted Festival VIP pass, Funny Tonners will have the opportunity to review shows right across the Fest – kicking off with the Opening Night Comedy Allstars Supershow at the Palais Theatre on Wednesday 26 March.   

Reviews are posted on the Festival website and shared with artists and audiences throughout the three and a half weeks. Thanks to ArtsHub, Australia's leading independent online resource dedicated to the world of the arts, selected Funny Tonne reviews will also be published on ArtsHub. 

Reviews will be judged by a panel of expert arts journalists to decide who will be crowned the 2025 Funny Tonne winner and receive a $250 cash prize. 

But it doesn't end there! Our selected Funny Tonners will also have the opportunity to meet with ArtsHub journalist to gain the best tips, tricks and insights on reviewing professionally. 

Think you’ve got what it takes? For more information, and to apply, head here. 

Applications close Sunday 9 March 2025.