Upfront 2014

For nearly two decades, Upfront has been bringing a line-up of some of the best women in comedy to centre stage, showcasing the depth and breadth of fabulously funny femmes. Host Geraldine Quinn and her band Spandex Ballet introduce each of the 20 acts with epic rock tunes, nudging the performers along and (almost) keeping the schedule on track. With so many clever performances, picking highlights is tricky:  Felicity Ward skewering tweeting twits; Isabel and Rachel edgily unpacking the beauty myth; Rebecca Di Unamuno's improvised Shakespeare; poetry reading from Cal Wilson's cousin; and, Adrienne Truscott's climatic cake-baking. Neatly bookended by 2014 Barry Nominee Celia Pacquola and the Barry's first winner (taffeta-wearing, identical twin teenage bridesmaids absurdists, Miss Itchy), Upfront provides the perfect platform for an array of inventive and witty comedians.

Main Hall, Melbourne Town Hall 16 Apr.