Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Bron Batten, Onstage Dating

If you’re single and looking, here’s your chance to date comedian Bron Batten live on stage — or at least squirm and laugh as a fellow audience member does.

Bron Batten Melbourne Comedy Festival 2019

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

They can expect to watch me go on a first date with someone from the audience — live onstage!

But never fear, you have to sign up to be a part of the show, so if you don’t volunteer to date me then you’re totally safe to watch the awkwardness unfold from a comfortable distance ...

THE A-Z OF COMEDIAN Q&AS

YOUR GUIDE TO THE MELBOURNE COMEDY FESTIVAL

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

The last time I performed at MICF I was doing a show with my Dad called Sweet Child of Mine — it was about what my parents think I do for a living.

Since then I’ve been touring the world, performing in the UK, France, New Zealand and all around Australia.

I also went on over 60 internet dates as “research” for Onstage Dating and those (interesting/horrific) experiences form the core of the show.

Who should see your show, and why?

If you’ve ever been on an internet date before and whether it was good, bad or ugly then you should totally come along — that way we can all share in the pain together.

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

Bring an open mind and take a chance on seeing someone who’s not on the telly.

You might be able to say “I saw them way back when” one day.

Oh, and also, if you’re shy of audience participation then sit from the third row back somewhere in the middle.

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

I’m excited about local talent and people who are moving into more theatrical territory ie. not just straight stand-up.

If it’s got a prop or two, a music cue and/or a dance number then it’s my jam.

What do you love about Melbourne?

I’ve travelled all over the world but I’ve been based in Melbourne for the past 17 years because honestly, there’s no better city anywhere on the planet.

The food, bars, parks, trams, affordable rent (at least for now) and amazing coffee.

Though one drawback is that if I have to wait more than four minutes for a flat white anywhere else then I turn into a massive Melbourne jerk.

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

Other human beings.

The “normal” people I date on stage often turn out to be much funnier than I am — though I do give them a pretty good set up!

My favourite thing is watching one of my volunteers open up, relax and have fun entertaining the audience.

And if they’re handsome it also doesn’t hurt!

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

Itss different every night depending on who signs up to be my date.

So you should definitely come twice.

BRON BATTEN, ONSTAGE DATING, MARCH 26-APRIL 7, THE BUTTERFLY CLUB, 5 CARSON PL. BOOK TICKETS