Rhys Nicholson brings their critically acclaimed show to Canada
GUELPH, ON January 8, 2026 — Kick off the weekend right with this sharp-witted, truth-telling Australian comic. Rhys Nicholson is embarking on a tour to amuse and bemuse crowds across Canada with their hilarious black comedy special, Huge Big Party Congratulations! The show takes River Run Centre’s Main Stage on Friday, January 23 at 8 p.m.
Nicholson started performing standup with their first live solo show in 2011, titled Social Liability. They have created a new one every year since then, except during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Their newest special, featured on this tour, is Huge Big Party Congratulations! As Paste Magazine reports, the show “lives up to its celebratory title.” Reviewer Rory Doherty notes, “Their natural comic instincts for ad-libbing and onstage reactions are infused with something real and raw, and their exuberantly titled new hour might be the most successful blend of heightened comedy and enduring frustration.”
Nicholson is known for their darkly deft commentary on life, and they certainly have a lot to say to Canadians. Speaking of the Canadian leg of this tour, Nicholson says, “In these times that are totally normal and everything’s fine, it just feels like the right time for a visit with some colonial cousins to gossip and swap notes. Only a coward wouldn’t attend.”
In addition to their adored standup, Nicholson is known for being a judge on the Australian and New Zealand adaptation of RuPaul’s Drag Race, called Drag Race Down Under, as well as its spin-off, Drag Race Down Under vs. the World. Nicholson was hand-picked to open for comedy legend Conan O’Brien on his 2019 Australian tour, leading to their U.S. debut as the standup guest on O’Brien’s hit show, Conan.
Supported by Series Sponsor GuelphToday.com, this show is part of the GuelphToday Comedy Series, packed with other entertaining acts for comedy lovers to enjoy. The show is also generously supported by River Run’s Season Sponsor Richardson Wealth, and funding from the Government of Canada.
Tickets to Rhys Nicholson are $49 for adults, $47 for patrons over 60 years old, and $29 for those under 30. Subscribe & Save 20% when you buy tickets to four or more shows. For more information or to purchase, call 519-763-3000, visit River Run’s Box Office at 35 Woolwich Street in Guelph, or go to https://riverrun.ca/whats-on/rhys-nicholson/.
FOR INFORMATION
Kasia Rusiniak | Program Manager, Development and Marketing
River Run Centre | City of Guelph
519-837-5662 ext. 2589
[email protected]