WILLIAMSBURG — Returning for its third year, the Last Word Comedy Festival is introducing a new comedy training program for attendees and hosting the touring company “Whose Live Anyway?” for its 2026 festival, running Jan. 29-Feb. 1.
“Whose Live Anyway?,” the touring live show featuring performers from the popular television comedy show “Whose Line is it Anyway?,” is the first headlining act announced for the 2026 event. The show features cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeff B. Davis, and Joel Murray taking the stage alongside musical director Laura Hall for a performance at the Glenn Close Theatre on Jan. 30. The program is presented by Last Word in partnership with William & Mary Arts and the main festival sponsor, the City of Williamsburg.
A new initiative for the festival, organizers said the Last Word Academy, invites improv comedy performers of all levels to join ensemble teams created specifically for the 2026 fest. Academy participants will receive instruction from a dedicated coach, exclusive merch and food, and additional perks throughout the festival weekend.
“Unlike most comedy festivals, Last Word doesn’t have a home theater playing host,” says event co-producer Adam Stackhouse. “This festival is uniquely positioned to serve as a place for performers from various comedy communities all over the country to come together to connect, learn, and put on some incredible showcases for our Williamsburg audience.”
The festival has also opened its annual call for submission-based improv and standup comedian acts, organizers said. Accepted acts from this process will join festival headliners in showcase performances during the event weekend. Shows will take place at the PBK Arts Quarter on the campus of William & Mary and at Precarious Beer Project.
Details on the Last Word Academy, act submissions, and “Whose Live Anyway?” are available at lastwordfestival.com.
“This festival has quickly become an extremely special event — bringing together world-class comedic acts and a joyous, talented community of performers to Williamsburg,” Stackhouse notes. “We’re excited for year three!”
