Our Writers' Favourite Live Comedy Acts Of 2016

For the first time this year, our writers voted for their fave live comedy show of the year. The results are in and it looks like we love tourists.

For a long time in Australia, US comic Hannibal Buress was known as "that guy from Broad City" with a list of other support roles attached but, as soon as he takes the stage, an entirely new persona is on show; one that will see him take over the world and Aussie venues at least twice the size during his next visit. He's claimed the top place in The Music's 2016 Writers' Poll for his diverse skill set and unique brand of humour that delves into controversy while still keeping things light-hearted and relatable.

Aussie favourites Sam Simmons and Wil Anderson came in second and third respectively and perhaps it's to do with their presence on TV and constant international touring that sees their material ever-evolving and always engaging.

New York's queen of ribald comedy, alt.cabaret and physical theatre, there's never a dull moment when it comes to Bridget Everett's (Girls/Lady Dynamite/Inside Amy Schumer) live show — she's loud, silly and left an impression on punters after her uninhibited, unapologetic and in-your-face east coast stint earlier this year.

There's no one quite like Parks & Rec grump Nick Offerman. While some actors or comedians might not like the idea of being typecast or pigeonholed after a role, it almost seems like the character of Ron Swanson was based on Offerman's life, as he sung of beards and woodwork while playing a homemade ukulele during his Aussie visit.

Racists, bigots, misogynists and abusers of power were in the firing line when US comedian/actor Margaret Cho's The PsyCHO Tour rolled through town. She's also one of few to nail the Aussie accent (unlike our number one, who butchered it to hell). Cho's another comic who's mastered balance and tone, ensuring the heavier content is offset by easy-going obsessional humour.

And last — but certainly not least — now-former triple j breakfast star Matt Okine, who might find his way higher up this list in 2017 as his comedy career takes priority. Okine's stand-up has evolved tenfold on previous years as he opens up the darkest points of his personal life for analysis. It's a brave move that not a lot of others take on or master, but Okine's new direction is exciting and promises big things.