Austin is set to host the highly anticipated Austin Sketch Fest this month at ColdTowne Theater, featuring some of the finest talents in sketch comedy from across the nation. The festival has established itself as a platform for comedians who are on the brink of mainstream success.
Executive producer Ashley Ellis highlighted the meticulous selection process involved in curating the lineup, stating, “We review dozens of submissions every year to pick the cream of the crop. We’re looking for unique perspectives and fresh ideas.” Over the years, the festival has successfully introduced audiences to now-famous comedians, including Tim Robinson, Amber Ruffin, Meg Stalter, and James Adomian.
This year, one of the standout headliners is Andrew Dismukes from Saturday Night Live. A graduate of the University of Texas, Dismukes began his comedy journey in Austin. Ellis expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “We’re so excited to have an active SNL cast member. I’m gonna have to try really hard not to be a fangirl when I meet him.”
The festival also places a strong emphasis on showcasing local talent. Mimi Meier, who began her comedic journey after a spontaneous joke in an elevator, is among the performers. Now based in Austin for five years, she will present her show “Me? Me!,” which humorously tells the story of a delusional Hollywood starlet unaware of her lack of fame. “But she doesn’t realize she’s not famous, which is kind of me as a person,” Meier remarked.
Beyond providing entertainment, the Austin Sketch Fest serves as a networking opportunity for performers. Meier noted, “It’s not only for an audience to have fun; it’s for performers to connect with each other, to learn and have a friend in another city.”
The festival will take place over two weekends, from August 14-16 and August 21-23. Tickets are available for purchase now.
