In a night filled with laughter and anticipation, Omar Gad emerged victorious as the funniest new talent in the country at the RAW Comedy National Grand Final.
The Event
The event, held yesterday at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, showcased 12 finalists from across Australia, each vying for the coveted title. Hosted by triple j’s Concetta Caristo, the sold-out crowd witnessed Omar Gad from the Northern Territory claim the top spot amidst tough competition.
Other finalists included Aaqib Merchant (VIC), Suma Iyer (ACT), Nathan Chin (NSW), Cam Muratore (VIC), Stella Kappos (SA), Stephanie Hare (TAS), Kiyanosh Sahebi (NSW), Jaimeson Gilders (QLD), Dylan Murphy (VIC), Jazz Bing (WA), and Stella Wu (NSW).
Selection Process
These finalists were selected from a pool of nearly one thousand aspiring comedians who showcased their talent across 61 heats and finals nationwide, each delivering their best five-minute sets.
The esteemed judging panel, consisting of Susan Provan (Festival Director), Kanan Gill (Comedian and author), Lisa Wang (Producer, White Fever), Kathryn Craigmyle (Comedy Programmer, Soho Theatre London), and Luka Muller (Comedian and triple j presenter), awarded Omar Gad the 2024 RAW Comedy winner.
While the judges deliberated, the audience was treated to special guest performances by Darren Harriott and Josh Jones from the UK.
Legacy of RAW Comedy
For nearly three decades, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival has been a platform for emerging comedians, with RAW Comedy providing a gateway to the country’s largest open mic comedy competition.
The finalists, now part of Australia’s comedy elite, join a distinguished alumni that includes the likes of Hannah Gadsby, Ronny Chieng, Matt Okine, and many more.
In addition to claiming the prestigious title, Omar Gad will have the opportunity to showcase their talent at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, competing in So You Think You’re Funny? Runners-up Stephanie Hare (TAS) and Stella Kappos (SA) were also acknowledged for their outstanding performances.
The 2024 RAW Comedy National Grand Final will be broadcast on SBS Viceland and SBS On Demand later this year. Still a few days left before the festival ends so stay tuned because there’s bound to be more to come! And if you’re looking to have a laugh right in-person then come on over any day of the week to Big Belly Comedy Club, we’ve got hilarious comedy shows playing every night so join in the fun!
