This week, the vibrant city of Austin will welcome hundreds of comedians from across the nation for the Moontower Comedy Festival, a celebrated event now in its 15th year. Recognized as one of the premier comedy festivals in the United States, it will take place from April 7 to April 18, spanning a dozen venues throughout the city.
This year’s lineup boasts an impressive array of nationally acclaimed performers, including Marc Maron, Kathy Griffin, and Roy Wood Jr. In addition to the headlining stand-up performances, the festival is committed to showcasing unconventional acts and local Texan comedians.
Comedian Angelina Martin expressed her enthusiasm for the festival, stating, “I’m super excited. I love Moontower so much. It’s always been such a huge part of the Austin comedy scene and the national comedy scene in general.”
Martin, who organizes several shows in Austin, will debut her show “Slide in the DMs” at this year’s festival. In this unique format, comedians and local personalities share bizarre messages they’ve exchanged, which improvisers then use to create comedic scenes.
“It’s not all really dirty stuff. Sometimes it’s weird in a different way,” Martin explained. “One time, the guy who sent the messages we were showcasing was in the audience, and he stood up to take credit for his weird messages.”
Inspired by her passion for both stand-up and improv, Martin has seen her work featured on platforms like Comedy Central and SiriusXM. Reflecting on her journey, she recalled an early moment in high school when she wrote a comedic monologue expressing gratitude for her perceived lack of attractiveness.
“I do remember saying how freeing it was that I didn’t have to worry about going on dates and I could just watch ‘Arrested Development’ with my parents,” she said, noting how her performance resonated with the audience and set her on a path in comedy.
This year, Martin will also participate in “The Texans,” a showcase highlighting some of the finest comedic talent from Texas. “It’s just going to be the best of Texas comedy,” she said. “We have always had lots of talented comedians here, so it’s fun to see my friends get their shine.”
“Slide in the DMs” will make its Moontower debut on April 15 at Rozco’s Comedy Club, while “The Texans” showcase series will take place at the Velveeta Room from April 15 to 18.
