Our Favourite Kiwi Women in Comedy
BY ROXY ALLNUTT
Bookmark this for when you need a good LOL
10 AUG -2023
Celebrating fierce and funny women in Kiwi comedy
Calling fellow Chatty comedy connoisseurs! We’ve made you a lineup of our all-time favourite women in comedy from our little ol’ NZ. These talented queens have mastered the art of comedy, leaving audiences in stitches and spreading joy wherever they go. It's time to shine a spotlight on the fierce and funny ladies who are redefining the comedy scene here in Aotearoa. Brace yourselves for an unforgettable journey filled with wit, charm, and unapologetic humour as we introduce you to Hayley Sproull, Kura Forrester, Rose Matafeo, Madeline Sami, and Urzila Carlson.
But let’s be real you MUST already know about these faces. One of the most fascinating aspects of comedy today is its remarkable expansion into new and diverse forms. Witnessing standup comedians is always a delight, whether I catch their live performances or enjoy their Netflix specials from the comfort of my couch, clad in cozy sweats and sipping wine. However, what truly excites me is the emergence of talented and hilarious women who are reshaping the comedy landscape. They are trailblazers, launching their own comedy podcasts or showcasing their uproarious acts on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Hayley Sproull
First up, we have the delightful Hayley Sproull. With her infectious energy and relatable storytelling, Hayley has a knack for turning mundane everyday situations into hilarious adventures. From navigating the chaos of public transport to the trials and tribulations of modern dating, she finds humour in the smallest of moments. Famous for her many roles in Kiwi television and being the co-host of the ZM morning show, Hayley's comedic charm lies in her ability to make you feel like you're right there with her, experiencing every awkward encounter and laughing along together. If you are in the market for a new podcast, I highly recommend her podcast with Morgan Penn, Sex.Life, it’s raunchy, real and highly entertaining.
Kura Forrester
Now let's dive into the comedy world of Kura Forrester. Kura's sharp wit and razor-sharp observations about life's absurdities make her comedy a breath of fresh air. She fearlessly explores the quirks of relationships, social media, and the human experience with a healthy dose of sarcasm. Kura's authenticity shines through as she effortlessly weaves personal anecdotes into her routines, inviting you to join her on a rollercoaster of laughter and reflection. Her unique perspective will have you laughing while pondering the mysteries of life. I have been watching Kura for years in her character Dessi on Shortland Street, and after seeing one of her shows I could quickly gather not only how talented but fabulous Kura is
Rose Matafeo
Prepare to fall in love with Rose Matafeo. With her magnetic charm and quick-fire delivery, Rose has a knack for transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary laughter-filled adventures. She fearlessly dives into the complexities of love, relationships, and the hilarity of being a young adult. Her talents have led her to the UK where she has won comedy awards, had her comedy showcased on HBO Max and starred in films. Buckle up, because Rose's comedy ride is wild, unpredictable, and utterly unforgettable.
Madeline Sami
This woman is a true master, transforming herself into a myriad of hilarious characters that will leave you in awe. Madeline's comedy is like a whirlwind of wit and absurdity, taking you on a wild ride through the realms of her imagination. She's that friend who can effortlessly imitate your crazy aunt, your annoying coworker, and that snobby barista who always gets your coffee order wrong. With Madeline, you'll find yourself doubled over with laughter. You may recognise her face from billboards, commercials, music, or from New Zealand shows that she both directs and stars in, but if you get the chance to see her comedy live, I would highly recommend it.
Urzila Carlson
Last but certainly not least, we have the indomitable Urzila Carlson. With her sharp tongue and quick wit, Urzila fearlessly tackles topics ranging from relationships to motherhood with unapologetic humour. Her no-nonsense approach and clever punchlines make her a force to be reckoned with. Urzila is a favourite for many seeing her soar in the comedy spaces of Australia and New Zealand. She’s been on drag race, Netflix comedy series and Taskmaster, if you have yet to see her work then you can catch her on her world tour through the link below.
The world of Kiwi comedy is alive and thriving, thanks to the talents of these ladies above and SO many more.
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