SF Sketchfest to mix big names, rising talent, assorted weirdness in 18th run

SF Sketchfest returns for its 18th run in San Francisco, playing more than 100 shows at more than a dozen venues — with up-and-coming local comics once again sharing the bill with national treasures.

The festival, founded and still curated by comedians Janet Varney, Cole Stratton and David Owen, has grown to the point of major corporate sponsorship, with Audible as the presenter for the past few years, and the occasional Hollywood-driven event — mostly revolving around the promotion of new TV shows.

But the prices are still relatively reasonable at the events below the highest tiers. Owen, Stratton and Varney continue to serve local comics on the rise. And there’s once again a pirate spirit with much of the programming, with surprises and assorted weirdness almost every day of the festival.

Here are several highlights and below-the-radar gems from the 18-day festival.

Note that some very big-name comedians and personalities, including Aparna Nancherla, “Weird Al” Yankovic and Adam Savage are appearing as guests on lower-profile shows. The festival also is full of local comedians, including Irene Tu, Matt Lieb, Drew Harmon and Valerie Vernale, bringing their showcases and specialty programs to a wider audience.

The big names

The Roast of Peaches Christ: Cult movie lover and San Francisco original Peaches Christ is honored as the performer turns 45. Roasters include actresses Mink Stole and Heather Matarazzo, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” winner Jinkx Monsoon and Cassandra “Elvira, Mistress of the Dark” Peterson.

8 p.m. next Sunday, Jan. 13. $30-$75. Castro Theatre, 429 Castro St., S.F.

Jose A Guzman Colon Midnight movie maven Peaches Christ will be roasted at the Castro Theatre on Sunday, Jan. 13.