27/1/2009: Thailand Announces World Comedy Festival

The decision to stage a World Comedy Film Festival in Thailand in 2009 came as a result of the government’s attempts to boost tourism to the country in the wake of damaging political protests in 2008 that briefly closed some of the country’s airports.

 The festival, which would be co-hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Federation of National Film Association, would be directed by the Federation’s Nakorn Veerapravati, and would present approximately 60 comedy films from around the world, including a selection of classic Thai comedies dating back to the 70s.

 Veerapravati said, ‘The operating budget will be around 60 million baht ($1.7 million), with about half coming from the government… Thailand is famous for its comedy films, and we believe it's a good opportunity to introduce Thai audiences to comedy films from other countries.’

 Festival organisers intended to invite internationally famous comedians – although none had been announced when plans for the festival were unveiled, and the festival would feature stand-up performances from local comedians. [ADD]

2009

Thailand: 2009