After earning critical praise across the Edinburgh, Toronto, and Vancouver Fringe Festivals, Filipino-Kiwi comedian James Roque is set to bring his solo comedy show Champorado to Australian shores this July.
Roque will perform in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney with his heartfelt and hilarious production that fuses stand-up, storytelling, and digital media. His Melbourne dates will also be filmed for an upcoming comedy special.
At the centre of Champorado is a deeply personal story that begins with a bowl of the Filipino chocolate rice porridge of the same name. Roque reflects on a moment that made him reassess his life—sparked by a life-changing message from his mother—and explores themes of identity, culture, and what truly matters.
“Two years ago, while I was eating a bowl of Champorado, I got a life-halting message from my mum,” he shares. “That message made me re-evaluate my life. That’s what this show is about.”
While the show resonates universally, Roque is particularly eager to connect with Filipino audiences across Australia.
“I think people from all walks of life will enjoy this show and my story, but I’m especially looking forward to connecting with the Filipino communities in Australia,” he says. “It’s been very fulfilling celebrating the culture with Filipinos all over the world, and I can’t wait to do the same there too.”
Champorado was nominated for Best Show at the 2025 Vancouver Fringe Festival and earned glowing reviews—four and five stars—at the Edinburgh Fringe. Roque also performed at the prestigious Just For Laughs Festival in Montreal in 2023.
With a comedy career spanning over 15 years, Roque has become a household name in New Zealand, appearing on shows such as 7 Days, Have You Been Paying Attention, and as a judge on The Masked Singer NZ. Online, he’s built a following of more than 220,000 across TikTok and Instagram with relatable and often hilarious content that celebrates Filipino culture.
Australian Tour Dates:
- Adelaide: July 3 – Rhino Room
- Brisbane: July 4–5 – Good Chat Comedy Club
- Melbourne: July 9–10 – Comedy Republic (Comedy Special Taping)
- Sydney: July 11–12 – The Comedy Store
🎟️ Tickets are available at www.jamesroque.com
