SF Sketchfest returns for its 17th year starting Thursday, Jan. 11, and this year’s festival promises to again be eclectic, surprising and star-filled 2½ weeks of comedy. (Plus a little music.)
Ricky Gervais, Christopher Guest, Dick Cavett, Jane Lynch, Bill Burr and casts of “Twin Peaks,” “Animal House,” “Better Things,” “Baskets” and “King of the Hill” will be included among the 230 shows. Chances are good a favorite podcast is being recorded live over the 17 days of performances.
But sometimes the hidden gems are found closer to the bottom of the schedule. Events featuring bad video games and a live “Celebrity Autobiography” reading featuring Sketchfest veteran Fred Willard, musician Peter Asher and actress Gina Gershon, among others, are included.
Also this year there is a lot of sketch and improv, with the festival returning to its roots even as it pushes forward.
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— Peter Hartlaub
SF Sketchfest Presented by Audible: Thursday, Jan. 11. Though Jan. 28. Various prices and venues in San Francisco. For the full schedule and ticket prices go to www.sfsketchfest.com.