Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Annie Louey, Before I Forget

Commit this one to your memory — this is an unforgettable, action-packed show with a heritage touch, says comedian Annie Louey.

Annie Louey Melbourne Comedy Festival 2019.

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

My second stand-up show contains hilariously relatable stories, games and never-before-seen, vintage photographs.

I discovered my dad’s photo collection after he passed away three years ago.

They are incredible shots showing his experience of migrating to country Victoria from China in the 1950s.

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

Since my first solo show Butt Donut last year, some highlights include: performing in showcases at the Edinburgh Fringe, producing the Tuesday drive show Jacq and Dene on JOY94.9 and starting my own monthly comedy room, Slice Comedy, in Brunswick East.

I’m also being featured in a book about women in comedy titled No Apologies by Joanne Brookfield, which will hit bookstores on April 1.

Who should see your show, and why?

This show is for anyone who’s ever lost anything whether it be your keys, a family member or your mind.

As reviewer Anne-Marie Peard said, the show is stand-up that welcomes its audiences by helping us realise we’re all pretty imperfect.

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

I’m amazed by the amount of people who say they’ve never been to the festival or only go every few years. So my No.1 tip is just go.

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

I’m keen to see Ronny Chieng in his post Crazy Rich Asians stardom.

I met Ronny in a dream where he told me to keep doing comedy.

I’m also very keen to see the new Fringe Wives Club show Glittergrass.

What do you love about Melbourne?

There’s a festival or event happening every night of the week.

There are so many delicious cafes and bars to try, and I love how multicultural it is.

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

In terms of my material, I’m inspired by my family and ridiculous real-life experiences I’ve had.

As for comedians, one of my biggest inspirations is Ali Wong for being able to gain world domination through her Netflix specials.

Anything else you want us to know about you or your show?

The show will change your perceptions of the Chinese community through comedy.

My venue is the Chinese Museum, the perfect setting for this show. Before I Forget had several sold out performances at the Melbourne Fringe last year.

ANNIE LOUEY, BEFORE I FORGET, MARCH 28-APRIL 21, CHINESE MUSEUM TEA ROOM, 22 COHEN PLACE. BOOK TICKETS