Vancouver SketchFest is experiencing rapid growth, and it's no wonder. Founded in 2024 by Jessey Nelson and his brother, the festival has seen a significant increase in applications year over year, with 70 entries for the 2026 event. This surge in interest is a testament to the festival's potential and the talent it attracts. Nelson, also a co-founder of the Smashed Potato Kids, a popular Vancouver sketch comedy group, is navigating the challenges of managing this growing success. He's even brought on fellow comedian and actor Malka Martz-Oberlander to help with operations, showcasing the festival's expanding reach and impact.
One of the key reasons for the festival's success is its ability to showcase homegrown talent. Hudson Williams, a star from the Crave hit 'Heated Rivalry', has been a regular presence at both the Smashed Potato Kids' YouTube channel and SketchFest. Nelson emphasizes the importance of elevating the Vancouver comedy scene, which is brimming with talent. He believes that sketch comedy is accessible and can be created with minimal resources, making it an ideal gateway to the world of film and performance.
Martz-Oberlander agrees, highlighting the need to put Vancouver on the comedy map. She points out that despite the abundance of talent, Vancouver is not as recognized as a comedy hub compared to Toronto. The festival aims to change that by attracting a diverse range of submissions, including international entries from the UK and LA. Last year, a popular LA sketch group even submitted a piece for the festival, leading to a major feature film production in Vancouver, 'Anything But Ghosts', starring Aaron Paul and Bryce Dallas Howard.
The festival's growing reputation has also attracted notable judges, including LA comedian Mitsy Sanderson, Chris Wilson from 'This Hour Has 22 Minutes', and producer Scott Mosier, known for his collaborations with Kevin Smith. However, the challenge remains to manage the influx of submissions while maintaining the festival's quality. Last year, around 30 sketches were screened, and Nelson expects a similar number this year, despite the increasing diversity of submissions.
As Vancouver SketchFest continues to thrive, Nelson's vision of expanding the local sketch scene and putting Vancouver on the comedy map becomes more tangible. The festival's growth is a testament to the power of local events in fostering talent and creating opportunities. With careful management and a commitment to quality, Vancouver SketchFest is poised to become a significant player in the comedy world, all while providing a platform for local artists and a stepping stone to the film industry.
