Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Alistair Baldwin, Three Dollar Bill

Former comedy festival usher turned comedian Alistair Baldwin has all the big laugh topics in his sights, from Popeye to Olympic and Paralympic mascots.

Alistair Baldwin Melbourne Comedy Festival 2019.

What can people expect from your show at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival?

A celebration of queer comedy, Three Dollar Bill is a split line-up featuring myself, Nikki Viveca and Hannah Arbuthnott.

People can expect a warm, welcoming and inclusive spirit, lots of laughs and (speaking for myself) some in-depth discussions about Popeye and the differences between Olympic and Paralympic mascots

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What have you been up to since last time you were here?

I’ve been a part of the festival for a couple of years as an usher, but last year was my first as a performer — appearing in the split show Young, Rich & Bald, and doing a run with my improv team The Level Sevens.

Since last year I’ve started doing some TV writing, including The Weekly with Charlie Pickering, Hard Quiz and Get Krack!n. I also play Matthew in Get Krack!n, the overworked and underslept PA to the Kates.

It’s a very minor role but it did completely go to my head and has made me insufferable to my friends.

Who should see your show, and why?

Queer people, and miscellaneous others (... straights?).

Really, anyone looking to hear different voices and perspectives this festival.

We’re also in a physically accessible venue and most of my gear is railing on abled people, so I would love lots of disabled people to come, too.

What’s your No.1 tip for people coming to see a show at the comedy festival?

Keep your electrolytes up — the festival is a marathon for performers, ushers and audience members alike, so Berocca is everyone’s best friend.

It also makes a very restorative cocktail when added to your vodka soda at Festival Club.

Which other comedians/shows are you keen to see at this year’s festival, and why?

Maria Bamford, Simon Amstell, The Breast of the Fest, Bella Green, Hit By A Blimp, Sweet Potatoes (Gamze Kirik, Elyce Phillips, Donna Collins) and Woah, Alyssa!

What do you love about Melbourne?

I’ve found people in Melbourne to be particularly accommodating and inclusive.

Maybe I’m living in a bubble — if so, I would highly recommend Melbourne’s wonderful bubbles.

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

Josie Long, because so much of her comedy comes from a curiosity about the world, along with a genuine desire to celebrate what’s good and improve what sucks about it.

ALISTAIR BALDWIN, THREE DOLLAR BILL, MARCH 27-APRIL 4, LOOP PROJECT SPACE & BAR, 19-23 MEYER PLACE. BOOK TICKETS