Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Ben Lomas, The Caffeinator Returns

Ben Lomas serves up a double-shot of coffee-inspired comedy.

Ben Lomas in The Caffeinator Returns at Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

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

The Caffeinator Returns is an uproarious journey exploring Melbourne’s coffee obsession.

This is double-shot, three-sugar comedy.

If you love coffee, or even hate it you’ll find yourself laughing at the people who rely on a cuppa Joe every day.

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Tell us about yourself.

I have been a full-time comedian for the past four years.

I am currently the go to ‘warm-up comedian’ for most TV shows.

I have worked on everything this year from Ninja Warrior, The Voice, Hard Quiz, The Weekly and even The Full Monty!

Spruik it! Who should see your show, and why?

This is straight stand-up with a flare for focusing on everyday life.

People in the coffee industry will love it and Melburnians even more.

I perform five days a week but there is something special when it’s your own show on a topic you love.

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

Come with an open mind, leave your judgments at the door and bring a friend who hasn’t seen comedy before.

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

Supporting mates in such a competitive industry is a must.

I always say, go see someone famous but also take a punt on someone you don’t know.

Dilruk Jayasinha is my co-host on our very popular podcast Fitbet and I would go see him!

What stands out to you about Melbourne?

Being from Melbourne, I love how much this city loves comedy.

Be it on the stage, on screen or at your local cafe. We love to laugh!

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

The people who inspire me include comics like Jerry Seinfeld and Dutch comedian Teo Maarsen.

Both love the art form and even though they have reached the top it doesn’t stop them wanting to get better.

Anything else you want us to know about your show?

I am located at Campari House, where they serve a cracking espresso martini, which is a perfect way to start my show.

BEN LOMAS, THE CAFFEINATOR RETURNS, APRIL 9-20, CAMPARI HOUSE, 23-25 hardware lane. BOOK TICKETS