Comedy is a fundamental part of carioca culture, flowing as an undercurrent through the interactions of the rich and poor from all walks of life - There is something cheeky, probing, and earnest about the way Rio's people self-depreciate and tease one another, always with a carefree smile and glimmer in their eyes.

In any country, humour develops through history, along with the traditions and culture of its people - Comedy in Rio is a way of addressing and overcoming the difficulties, deficiencies and struggles that its people face; it is man's intellect and ingenuity laughing in the face of its toils and obstacles - whether they be poverty, corruption, crime, obesity or the length of time one has to wait in a queue.

From stand-up comedy to improvised sets, cabaret musicals to plays, Rio is rich in settings and spectacles to make audiences chuckle - Many comedy shows have age restrictions, usually prohibiting the entrance of those aged 14-16 and below, after all, Carioca comedians don't shy away from the crass or saucy.