AEG, Outback Strike Strategic Partnership

Live entertainment powerhouse AEG Presents is expanding its presence in the comedy world via a new strategic partnership with Outback Presents, the leading independent comedy touring and promotion company in North America.

The partnership brings together AEG’s massive global live-events infrastructure with Outback’s expertise in stand-up comedy, comedy festivals and comedy touring. The goal for the two companies in working together is to expand opportunities for comics at every stage of their careers, deepen fan engagement, and drive the continued growth of comedy as a cornerstone of the live entertainment business.

Founded in 1996, and run by Mike Smardak and Brian Dorfman, Outback Presents has built a leading position in the comedy space through long‑standing artist relationships, trusted representation, and a reputation for thoughtful career development. The company promotes tours, festivals, and live comedy events across North America, including properties such as the Nashville Comedy Festival and 312 Comedy Festival, and works closely with leading agents and managers across the comedy ecosystem.

Operating across five continents, AEG Presents’ tentpole events include the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, British Summer Time at Hyde Park, Stagecoach, Electric Forest, Rock En Seine, and All Points East. The company also promotes global tours for artists such as Justin Bieber, Zach Bryan, Sabrina Carpenter, Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, Celine Dion, Elton John, Carin León, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Tyler, The Creator.

“We couldn’t be more excited about this partnership and the opportunity to work closely with AEG Presents,” said Outback’s Smardak and Dorfman in a joint statement. “The company brings a market-leading perspective and presence to the live events business, while remaining intentional about protecting the identity of their unique business units. It feels global and bespoke at the same time.”

Added Shawn Trell, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, AEG Presents: “Outback Presents has built an enviable business from the ground up, and our intent is to let them do what they do best: create best in class comedy events. This partnership is founded – like so many of the ones we seek out at AEG Presents – on collaborating with true visionaries who complement our business strategy in meaningful and creative ways.”