Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Anthony Tomic, Please Pray For Me

Expect plenty of nervous energy and excitement as Anthony makes his solo debut at the MICF and make sure you give him a round of applause

Anthony Tomic, Please Pray For Me

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

As it’s my solo debut, probably a healthy amount of nervous energy and excitement. Content wise, I am mainly a storyteller, but I also love to sling around some observations and work in some absurdity (and the odd prop) as well.

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

I have been here a few times as part of a line-up (The 5:30 Show), but this is my first time going solo. I guess what you need to know about me is I got into comedy because I felt like not doing so would be a waste of my unintentionally hilarious Croatian parents.

I’m really grateful they came to this country, replete with its amazing opportunities, but the main opportunity that has ever really gelled with me is where I get to entertain strangers with true(ish) stories and over-shares.

Who should see your show, and why?

You should see my show because I have quite a lot of experience for a MICF debutant, and I have built up a lot of bits and (I like to think) a decent bag of tricks.

I’m confident there’s going to be something for everyone in my show.

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

My main tip is to catch some of the debutants, like myself, as well as old favourites.

If a newbie has caught your eye for whatever reason, check their show out.

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

I’ll be catching Luke Heggie’s show (Have That), along with some of my Canberra peers Chris Ryan and Tom Gibson (Unqualified), Franky McNair and Maddy Weeks (Constantly Screaming), and The 5:30 Show.

A favourite of mine in festivals past has been improv duo “The Bear Pack” and, while it’s not here in 2019, one half of the show, Carlo Ritchie, has a solo outing “Drinking for Two” which I will definitely check out.

What stands out to you about Melbourne and/or its people?

I am Melbourne born and raised! It is a beautiful, vibrant and multicultural place and I will definitely make fun of it only a little bit in my show. Also, Melbourne has the best souvlakis in Australia (settle down Sydney, you have the best Banh Mi).

If you want to catch me when I’m off stage, I’ll probably be at Lambs in Prahran (corner of Commercial Road and Chapel Street).

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

My earliest interaction with comedy came courtesy of my mum buying things, often junk, from the Reader’s Digest catalogue. Her purchases were almost always to enter some cash or prize draw, but on one occasion she bought VHS tape of Irish comedian Dave Al

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

Yeah it’s at 9:30 each night from April 9-20 at The Imperial. Add it to your list!

ANTHONY TOMIC, PLEASE PRAY FOR ME, APRIL 9-20, IMPERIAL HOTEL, HOOPER ROOM, BOOK TICKETS