For the past few months, billboards and bus ads in Los Angeles have been touting the arrival of Netflix Is a Joke Fest, with some legitimately funny ad copy (“You can’t spell ‘laugh’ without ‘L.A.’ and ‘ugh’”). And what’s in store promises to be truly epic; there’s so much packed into these 12 days: “400+ Artists. 500+ Shows. 35+ Venues,” the streamer promises.
As Consequence’s man lady in Havanna L.A., I’m excited to check out the full spread of shows, and below I’ve compiled some of the fest’s most exciting announced events, with a focus on shows that aren’t just straight-up stand-up from a headliner. (Though there are some great options there, including John Mulaney, Wanda Sykes, Ali Wong, and more.)
There are a lot of surprises planned, with many full lineups under wraps, but when you consider just how many damn comedians will be in Los Angeles for the duration of the fest, the odds are good that you’ll spot at least one or two of your favorites on stage this May.
Chris Rock’s Table Reads
Multiple Dates
Hollywood Palladium
During the last NIAJF, Seth Rogen’s table reads of Friday and Seinfeld were deeeelightful. So there’s no question that Chris Rock’s turn at recasting the films When Harry Met Sally and Boogie Nights will be equally fun, with the promise of some truly wild surprise stars performing some classic scenes.
The Drop In
Multiple Dates
Outside Joke at Hollywood Palladium
Taking place at the Outside Joke festival venue (day passes are only $25, and every day has plenty of fun events scheduled), The Drop In promises “surprise sets from the biggest names in comedy!”, which means you’re rolling the dice on who will be featured, but the spontaneous vibe could be really fun.
Gods Of Comedy With David Letterman
Multiple Dates
The Montalbán Theatre
Retirement looks good on David Letterman — not just talking about the beard. His new passion for longform interviews with notable figures has led to some wonderfully insightful conversations (his new special featuring John Mulaney, premiering on Netflix April 30th, is a must-see). And so it doesn’t matter that Netflix hasn’t announced who he’ll be interviewing over the course of three nights at the Montalbán — no matter what, these will be some great conversations.
