TORONTO — Massey Hall is preparing to welcome the new year with laughter as it brings back the New Year’s Eve Comedy Extravaganza for its 21st edition on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The annual tradition, widely considered one of Toronto’s marquee holiday events, will be hosted by celebrated comedian Colin Mochrie and will feature award-winning Toronto comic Mike Rita.
The show, curated by YukYuks founder Mark Breslin, has become a fixture on the city’s entertainment calendar, drawing audiences eager for a lively countdown to midnight. Additional acts are expected to be announced in the weeks leading up to the event.
“New Year’s Eve Comedy Extravaganza celebrates it’s 21st year at Massey Hall and this year features host Colin Mochrie, featuring Mike Rita,” the announcement stated. “More to join the line-up soon!”
Tickets go on sale Thursday, October 2 at 10 a.m. through www.masseyhall.com/tickets and by phone at 416-872-4255. An early bird promotion offering 20 per cent off tickets will run until October 31.
A Comedy Legend at the Helm
Mochrie, a Toronto-born performer with an international reputation, brings decades of improv and comedic experience to the stage.
An alumnus of Toronto’s Second City troupe, he became a household name through his work on both the British and American versions of Whose Line Is It Anyway?, where he appeared as a regular over the course of 30 seasons. His career also includes a stint on CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes from 2001 to 2003, and the co-creation of Getting Along Famously, a series he produced, wrote, and starred in alongside his wife, Debra McGrath.
Mochrie continues to tour internationally, performing live improv with fellow Whose Line cast-mate Brad Sherwood. He is also part of Hyprov!, a show blending hypnosis and improvisation that has earned critical acclaim across North America.
Rising Canadian Talent Joins the Line-up
The show will also feature Toronto’s Mike Rita, an award-winning stand-up comedian known for his energetic delivery and storytelling.
Rita draws heavily on his Portuguese heritage, weaving cultural identity, family dynamics, and everyday life into his comedy. His relatable style has earned him recognition on major stages, including the Just For Laughs festival.
He made history by becoming the first comic to host a 420 show at the Toronto Festival and, in 2024, was honoured by the president of Portugal as one of the 70 most significant Portuguese Canadians of the past 70 years.
“Mike Rita is an award-winning comedian from Toronto, known for his relatable storytelling and sharp humour,” the announcement noted. “Drawing inspiration from his Portuguese heritage, Mike’s comedy explores themes of family dynamics, cultural identity, and everyday life experiences solidifying his status as a ‘must-see’ performer.”
A Holiday Staple for Toronto Audiences
The New Year’s Eve Comedy Extravaganza has become a long-standing holiday tradition, drawing audiences from across the Greater Toronto Area who are eager to celebrate with laughter before ringing in the new year.
Hosted in one of Canada’s most iconic venues, the show reflects Massey Hall’s role in showcasing both homegrown and international talent while providing a space for cultural celebration.
This year’s edition is expected to draw a sold-out crowd, with the early ticket promotion adding extra incentive for comedy fans to secure their seats early.
Ticket Information
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Event: New Year’s Eve Comedy Extravaganza
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Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025 – 8:00 p.m. ET
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Venue: Massey Hall, Toronto, ON
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Tickets: On sale Thursday, October 2 at 10 a.m. via masseyhall.com/tickets or by calling 416-872-4255
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Discount: 20% off early bird sale until October 31, 2025
With a celebrated comedy icon, a rising Canadian talent, and more acts to be announced, the New Year’s Eve Comedy Extravaganza promises to deliver another evening of sharp wit, improvisation, and memorable performances. For Toronto audiences, it remains one of the city’s most entertaining ways to usher in the new year.
