Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Colette Mann, Mann Up and Take The Paine

Colette Mann has been a staple on our TV screens for years, but her first comedy festival show - with Neighbours co-star Geoff Paine - still has her nerves on edge.

Geoff Paine and Colette Mann will share their wealth of TV experience at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

What can people expect from your show at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival (with Geoff Paine)?

A 50-minute workshop on how to do big acting for the small screen.

Crying on cue, upstaging, stealing focus, all the important things.

Are you new to MICF?

This is my first comedy festival show (not accounting for the Vagina Monologues), and I’m really terrified, happy and excited. Not in that order. Actually, yes, in that order.

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

Everybody who’s watched any screen ever and thought ‘I want to be that’.

Except if they’re watching wildlife documentaries, obviously.

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

Get there early, sit in the front row and laugh a lot. That’s what I’ll be doing.

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

I’ll struggle to see many other shows, to be honest, but I’ve heard Sarah Keyworth is terrific. You should see our show first, though, in case she’s really funny.

What stands out to you about Melbourne?

I’ve lived here for over 50 years (odd, I’m only 34) and I’m still confused by hook turns.

That’s why I only turn one way in the CBD.

Who is your comedic inspiration, and why?

Geoff Paine. I can’t take him seriously.

Anything else you want us to know about your show?

You will laugh, we will laugh, and you will laugh at us laughing. And if you can’t laugh at us, laugh near us.

Colette Mann and Geoff Paine, Mann Up and Take The Paine, march 26-april 21, campari house, 23-25 hardware lane. book tickets