DUBAI // Internationally renowned funnymen will take to the stage next week for a series of comedy shows as part of this year's Dubai Shopping Festival.
The first Dubai International Comedy Carnival will be held over five days, bringing together stand-up comedians from the United States and the Middle East.
The headliners include Dean Obeidallah and Aron Kader from the acclaimed Axis of Evil comedy tour, and American comedian Michael Winslow, who played sound-effects expert Larvelle Jones in the Police Academy films.
"The carnival will feature some well-known international and regional comedians performing in Dubai," said Ali Al Sayed, the founder and executive officer of Dubomedy Arts, the organisers of the event.
He said Dubomedy Arts wanted to build a strong platform and community for comedy in Dubai. It hopes to encourage local talent with training classes and opportunities to showcase their work.
Mr Al Sayed will also be performing along with his wife and company co-founder, Mina Liccione.
Amro Qatamesh, Nemr Abou Nasser, Thamer Al Hamzi and Bader Saleh complete the line-up of comedians.
As well as jokes, the carnival will also host a GCC breakdance competition, a rock music competition for schools and performances by local bands, a make-your-own film contest and an amateur stand-up comedy competition.
The carnival will take place from January 22 to 26 at Dubai Festival City.
Ticket prices vary but most shows start from Dh100. For more details visit www.comedy.ae.
[ nhanif@thenational.ae ]
