Hell Yes Fest: Your Ultimate Primer on New Orleans’ Comedy Event
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By: Inside NOLA
Hell Yes Fest is New Orleans’ premier comedy event, showcasing a variety of comedic talent from both the local scene and across the nation. What distinguishes Hell Yes Fest is its unique blend of stand-up, improv, sketch, and experimental comedy formats, all taking place in the culturally rich setting of New Orleans. The festival plays a crucial role in promoting and nurturing both established and up-and-coming comedians, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and connect with audiences.
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TL;DR
Hell Yes Fest is an annual week-long comedy celebration in November, featuring over 75 comedians across multiple New Orleans venues.
The festival offers a diverse mix of stand-up, improv, sketch, and experimental comedy formats, with ticket options ranging from individual shows to all-access passes.
With a decade of history, Hell Yes Fest has become a beloved institution that celebrates New Orleans’ unique culture while showcasing top comedic talent from the local scene and beyond.
History and Evolution of Hell Yes Fest
Hell Yes Fest was founded in 2011 by Chris Trew, a New Orleans-based comedian and co-founder of The New Movement theater. Trew’s vision was to create a comedy festival that celebrated the city’s unique spirit while bringing together top-notch talent from across the country. Over the years, Hell Yes Fest has grown significantly in both size and popularity. What started as a small gathering of comedians has evolved into a multi-day extravaganza featuring over 75 performers across multiple venues. The festival has hit notable milestones along the way, such as hosting high-profile headliners like Doug Benson and Sarah Silverman.
The Festival Experience
Attending Hell Yes Fest is an immersive experience that goes beyond just watching comedy shows. The festival atmosphere is electric, with audiences fully engaged and ready to laugh. The vibe is distinctly New Orleans – laid-back, welcoming, and a little bit quirky in the best possible way. The types of performances you’ll encounter at Hell Yes Fest run the gamut from traditional stand-up sets to more experimental fare. Expect to see improv troupes, sketch comedy, and even the occasional ranch dressing-fueled bit. The festival takes place at various iconic venues around New Orleans, including The Joy Theater, The Howlin’ Wolf Den, and Comedy House New Orleans.
Planning Your Visit
The best time to attend Hell Yes Fest is typically in mid-November, when the weather in New Orleans is mild and pleasant. The festival usually runs for around a week, with the 2023 edition spanning from November 13-20.
In terms of ticketing, there are a few options available. You can purchase tickets to individual shows or opt for a festival pass, which grants access to all eight days of comedy. Prices start at around $20 per show, with festival passes offering the best value for die-hard comedy fans.
When it comes to accommodations, New Orleans has no shortage of options. From charming boutique hotels in the French Quarter to more budget-friendly choices, there’s something for every taste and budget. Getting around the city during the festival is easy, with many venues located within walking distance of each other or easily accessible by rideshare or public transportation.
Highlights from Past Events
Over the years, Hell Yes Fest has played host to some truly memorable performances. Rising stars like Kyle Kinane, Chelsea Peretti, and Sean Patton have all graced the festival’s stages early in their careers. The festival is also known for its unique events, like the “Stoned vs. Drunk vs. Sober” stand-up show or the “Sudden Death” one-liner competition.
Attendees rave about their experiences at Hell Yes Fest, with many praising the festival’s inclusive, community-driven atmosphere. As one reviewer put it, “Hell Yes Fest was a buffet with morsels from all over, celebrating familiar and lesser-known cities and the emerging comedians calling those places home.”
Impact on Local Culture and Economy
Beyond just providing laughs, Hell Yes Fest has a significant impact on New Orleans’ cultural landscape and economy. The festival draws comedy lovers from across the country, providing a boost to local businesses during what is typically a slower tourism period.
Hell Yes Fest also provides opportunities for local artists and volunteers to get involved, fostering a sense of community and pride in the city’s thriving comedy scene. As festival director Chris Trew notes, “We want people to come to Comedy House, come to any of our venues, and realize, ‘Oh my God, there is so much amazing talent that lives here.'”
Comparisons with Other Comedy Festivals
While Hell Yes Fest shares some similarities with other major comedy events like Just for Laughs in Montreal, it has its own distinct identity. What sets Hell Yes Fest apart is its intimate, DIY spirit and its celebration of New Orleans’ one-of-a-kind culture.
The festival has also been influential in setting trends within the comedy festival circuit. By eschewing big-name headliners in favor of showcasing emerging talent, Hell Yes Fest has helped pave the way for a new generation of comedians to find their voice and build their careers.
Future of Hell Yes Fest
As Hell Yes Fest looks ahead to future editions, the organizers remain committed to innovating and expanding the festival’s offerings. Plans are in the works to add new features and events that will keep audiences coming back year after year.
Of course, putting on a comedy festival is not without its challenges. Securing funding, attracting top talent, and standing out in an increasingly crowded festival landscape are all hurdles that Hell Yes Fest will need to navigate moving forward. However, with a decade of success under its belt and a loyal fanbase, the future looks bright for this beloved New Orleans institution.
One key focus for Hell Yes Fest going forward will be engaging the next generation of comedy lovers. By continuing to showcase fresh, diverse voices and experimenting with new formats, the festival hopes to inspire and attract new audiences who will help carry the torch for years to come.
