A Beginner’s Guide to Ancient Egypt
30 April – 3 May 2026
Brisbane Powerhouse
Pyramids. Pharaohs. Spells. Few civilisations capture the imagination quite like Ancient Egypt: a world of mystery, magic, and mildly concerning burial practices. In 2026, award-winning comedian and amateur Egyptologist AJ Lamarque returns to stages around the country with a new comedy hour A Beginner’s Guide to Ancient Egypt, touring Adelaide Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Brisbane Comedy Festival and more.
Described as “part history lesson, part comedy, and entirely entertaining”, A Beginner’s Guide to Ancient Egypt is a historically accurate, adults-only edutainment hour that blends sharp humour, storytelling and cultural insight. Less stand-up and more general comedy, the show explores the gods, pharaohs and everyday lives of one of the world’s most mysterious civilisations, while drawing uncanny parallels to modern life.
The show was born out of an unexpected academic detour. In 2013, while studying abroad at UC Berkeley, Lamarque enrolled in Hieroglyphs 101, accidentally sparking a lifelong obsession with Ancient Egypt and an apology email to his UK university explaining why none of his chosen classes related to his Biomedical Science degree. Over a decade later, that passion has evolved into a comedy hour 5,000 years in the making.
When asked about why he created a comedy-history show, AJ responded: “I’m a nerd. I love learning and my eyes light up equally when I’m making people laugh and when I’m talking about my passion subjects. So I thought, why not do both?”.
He continued: “I want people to laugh, have fun, and walk out having learned something. Learning about the world should be for everyone.”
The show has been a hit with audiences too, with sold out runs across the country including Adelaide Fringe & his debut Melbourne International Comedy Festival season. Demand has meant extra shows have been added across the tour run.
With his trademark charisma and soft-educational approach, Lamarque creates an intimate, high-energy experience that resonates strongly with curious comedy lovers seeking something smart, accessible and genuinely different.
For ticketing and further information, visit the Brisbane Comedy Festival website
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