The Leake in Review

The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival on LIR

Episode Summary

Mike & Donovan Bring the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival to The Leake in Review In this lively installment of The Leake in Review, host Leake (@TheLeake) steps away from the music spotlight to dive into the world of live comedy with two key players behind one of Canada's most unique festivals: Mike and Donovan from the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival.

Episode Notes

Mike & Donovan Bring the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival to The Leake in Review

In this lively installment of The Leake in Review, host Leake (@TheLeake) steps away from the music spotlight to dive into the world of live comedy with two key players behind one of Canada's most unique festivals: Mike and Donovan from the Great Outdoors Comedy Festival.

Donovan — better known to fans as the hilariously strict "Park Ranger Donovan" (complete with uniform, questionable park rules, and a knack for improvised chaos) — joins alongside Mike to unpack what makes this outdoor comedy extravaganza stand out. The festival blends cabaret-style shows under the stars with big-name headliners  and rising local talent, all while turning parks and green spaces into roaring comedy clubs.

The conversation kicks off with Donovan's origin story: how his over-the-top park ranger persona evolved from improv roots into the festival's official (and unofficial) mascot/spokesman. Mike provides the behind-the-scenes perspective, discussing the challenges and thrills of producing large-scale outdoor events — from scouting perfect natural venues to building community vibes, partnering with cities, and creating memorable experiences that feel more like a wild adventure than a standard comedy show.

Sign up on the official site for updates: https://greatoutdoorscomedyfestival.com/

Here's the full list of 2026 locations, all dates, and confirmed main headliners/top billed acts (as of mid-February 2026 announcements):