The Melbourne International Comedy Festival reminds us – Aussies love a good laugh! When it comes to a successful night out, a comedy show hits the spot. But did you know a carefully crafted catering experience can take the whole event from funny to unforgettable? Whether you’re hosting a private comedy night or working with clients on a special event, understanding the unique catering needs of a comedy show makes all the difference. As your trusted catering equipment specialists, we’ll guide you through everything you need to create a hilarious and hassle-free evening.

The Ideal Comedy Show Menu

A comedy show calls for a specific kind of catering approach. The trick is to provide tasty bites and beverages guests can enjoy without making too much fuss, so they don’t miss the punchlines.

Finger Food Fanatics: Miniature versions of crowd-pleasers are the name of the game. Little sliders, gourmet hotdog bites, or even individual charcuterie cones are easy to handle and can be scarfed down in between laughs. Steer clear of anything too dripping in sauce or requiring intensive cutlery use.

Themed Drinks are a Win: Get creative with cocktails or mocktails inspired by famous comedians or iconic jokes. A “Charlie Chaplin” (black and white concoction) or the bright and bubbly “Lucille Ball” are sure to bring a smile before the first comedian even takes the stage.

Popcorn Power: Is there anything more synonymous with entertainment than popcorn? Create a fun popcorn bar with a range of gourmet seasonings. Options like truffle salt, cheesy spice, and even a sweet and salty combo will keep guests entertained while they await the main course…of comedy!

Equipment Must-Haves

The right catering equipment ensures everything runs seamlessly, letting the focus stay where it should be – on the hilarious acts! Here’s your comedy night equipment checklist:

Strategic Serving Stations: Opt for smaller grazing tables scattered throughout the venue. This helps guests easily grab snacks and drinks while ensuring crowds don’t form in a single spot, blocking sightlines.

Keep it Warm (or Cool): Hot food bars are essential for hot snacks if you don’t have a full kitchen setup at the venue. Similarly, silent refrigerators or coolers keep drinks and any fresh ingredients chilled subtly behind the scenes.

Self-Serve Simplicity: Beverage dispensers for both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options let guests refill easily, minimising server interruptions during the show.

Embrace Elegant Disposables: A comedy show might call for a more casual atmosphere. If so, consider high-quality disposable plates, napkins, and cutlery to streamline cleanup without sacrificing presentation.

In locations where a kitchen is not available, remember, we can build one in any available space with ovens, hotboxes, fryers, benches, refrigeration and floormats.

And don’t forget the need to keep the glassware clean and drinks flowing. Our ice makers and dishwashers can assist.

Timing is Everything

Cater your comedy show timeline with these tips in mind:

Pre-Show Cheer: Welcome guests with light appetisers and beverages to set that fun, social mood from the get-go.

Intermission Intervention (Optional): For longer shows, a brief intermission allows guests to refresh their drinks, grab another snack, and stretch their legs (and those giggle muscles!).

The Latecomer’s Corner: Designate a small area stocked with snacks away from the main stage for those who arrive a bit late. This lets them fuel up without the awkward mid-show stumble for food.

The Benefits for Caterers

Catering for comedy nights isn’t just about serving up deliciousness; it has great advantages for your business too!

Comedy events are inherently light-hearted and a refreshing change of pace, making them a joy to cater. You’ll rub shoulders with organisers, venue managers, and potentially even the comedians themselves, opening up new opportunities.

Last but not least, showcasing your ability to handle the specific needs of a comedy show makes you a sought-after caterer for all sorts of unique and exciting events.