In the middle of the Panch Festival, she had to go to the maternity hospital: A new comedy lover was born (PHOTO)

On the third day of the Panč comedy festival, organizer Andrej Težak, Tešky, shared a heartwarming story that has become one of the more memorable moments of the event. The incident took place during the fifth or sixth edition of the festival, over 12 years ago. A couple had attended the show, seated in the front row among the most dedicated fans of comedy. The woman was visibly pregnant, and throughout the performance, she and her companion laughed along with the audience. However, after the show, they left the venue, seemingly for a bathroom break. Tešky initially assumed they were simply taking a moment away from the crowd, but he soon learned otherwise. The next day, he received an email explaining that the couple had actually gone into labor and had left to deliver their child. The story gained new meaning several years later when the couple returned to the festival, still loyal supporters of the event. They had missed some editions due to family commitments, but eventually arranged for childcare and made a return appearance. Last year, the couple’s son attended the festival for the first time. As Tešky recounted, the boy approached him and said, “I don’t know you, but I’ve heard of you.” Tešky, stunned, realized the boy had been raised on his performances. The young man, though not literally born at the Ljubljana Castle, had grown up hearing Tešky’s jokes. “We can say we have raised a new fan of stand-up comedy,” Tešky joked. This anecdote reflects the deep connection many attendees share with the Panč festival. Over nearly two decades, the event has evolved beyond just a series of comedy shows. It has become a gathering place for long-time fans, couples who met there, and even families who bring their children. Some attendees have come to the festival every year, purchasing tickets for all five days. Others began as solo visitors, later bringing partners, and now attend with their children. In fact, some couples have even met at the festival and formed lasting relationships. Now entering its 19th year, the Panč festival continues to grow in both scale and influence. This year's lineup includes a mix of established names and emerging talents. Among the familiar faces will be Boštjan Gorenc, Pižama, Lucija Ćirović, Klemen Bučan, Alen Borišek, Sašo Stare, and Martina Ipša. Tešky praised Martina’s career path, noting that she started her journey in Ireland, where she quickly gained popularity. She has won awards at international comedy festivals, appeared in short films, and continues to build her reputation as a standout performer. Special attention this year will also go to Zala Đurić, who is making her debut as a stand-up comedian. While Tešky acknowledges that her performance may carry some anticipation, he believes her talent will shine through. Her presence adds to the festival’s tradition of introducing fresh voices while honoring seasoned performers. As the festival prepares for its upcoming edition, organizers remain focused on balancing the familiar with the new. They aim to maintain the high standards set by past editions while expanding their reach to include a broader range of comedic styles and international influences. With a schedule featuring three programs in Slovenian, a Balkan evening, and a night in English, the festival continues to serve as a cultural hub for comedy lovers across Europe.