Comedy Gala's international gala host

20 February 2005

The ODDFELLOWS Comedy Gala proudly announces this years international gala host

Dom Irrera, The Godfather Of Stand-Up

"If Tony Soprano wanted a comic, he'd call Irrera" (Chortle, June 2005) Comedians performing in this year's ODDFELLOWS Comedy Gala, better watch their backs. There'll be no messing with 'the family' when famed Italian-American, Dom Irrera, shoots into town to host the high profile festival opening event. A veteran of the international comedy scene, Dom Irrera follows in the footsteps of previous comedy heavyweights, bringing his own distinctive style and vast experience to the pivotal role of 2006 Gala Host.

Applauded for his fast-paced, wise guy style of delivery, Irrera has an impressive career in the comedy industry, for which he has received a number of high profile awards. Although he has played to great acclaim at festivals and live venues all over the world, NZ audiences will best remember Irrera for his work in film and television.

His latest film performance ranks Irrera in the top 100 comedians worldwide, sharing the company of big name stars including Billy Connolly, Jason Alexander, Eddie Izzard, Whoopi Goldberg, Phyllis Diller, Robin Williams and Paul Reiser. The film is The Aristocrats, a documentary told about a joke every comedian knows but never tells on stage. Irrera arrives in NZ for the films national release date.

With an obsessive passion for sport, Irrera hosted four seasons of Comedy Central's irreverent football show, "Offsides", famed for his hilarious on the field interviews with football greats. He has also performed on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno", "The Late Show with David Letterman", "Oprah", "Damon", "Seinfeld", "Becker", "Everybody Loves Raymond" and "King of Queens". Credits on the big screen include The Big Lebowski, Hollywood Shuffle and The Godson.

Next stop for the big man of comedy is NZ, and The ODDFELLOWS Comedy Gala. Dom will play host to the fast-paced 2-hour comedy extravaganza, filmed live for TV, which showcases the very best local and international talent in this year's festival. With Irrera as the head of the pack, this will certainly be a gala to remember! The ODDFELLOWS Comedy Gala is a 'must see' festival event. Sure to sell out, audiences are advised to book early for this star-studded showcase in yet another outstanding programme of comedy

ODDFELLOWS Comedy Gala St. James Theatre, 312 Queen Street, Auckland Friday 12 May, 8pm Bookings: TicketDirect - 09 379 7979 www.ticketdirect.co.nz Show Duration: 2 hours Dom Irrera's solo show 'Two Nights Only!' Sat 13 May, 8pm St James Theatre, 312 Queen Street, Auckland Bookings: TicketDirect - 09 379 7979

Sat 14 May, 8pm SKYCITY Theatre, Cnr Wellesley & Hobson Streets, Auckland Bookings: Ticketek - 09 307 5000

ENDS

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