Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Jake Howie, Let Them Eat Jake

There’s nothing fake about comedian Jake Howie, who promises to have loose lips and no filter.

Jake Howie Melbourne Comedy Festival 2019.

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

It’s the story of how I met my Italian husband, some insight into my spiritual, ex-Scientologist parents and my love of female-driven rap.

It’s basically Eat Pray Love with more eating, less praying and Scientology.

BRITISH AND IRISH COMEDIANS TO SEE THIS YEAR

TOP COMICS REVEAL THEIR FAVOURITE COMEDIANS

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

I am a gay boy from the mean streets of West Auckland, and I’ve never been afraid of a little R18 laughs to make this wild world seen a little less dull.

It’s all about laughing and being authentic and ridiculous in a world that is as filtered as an Instagram influencer’s selfie (it’s like guys, we know you don’t look like that. This is getting embarrassing).

Who should see your show, and why?

I am an Aucklander who married a Roman and I have sordid tales to tell about love, life and making sweet love (or rooting, whatever’s your poison).

I’m also a spiritual queen.

Live like there’s no tomorrow (but there is, so be careful), love like you’ve never been hurt (but you have been, remember Brian? That knob broke your heart) and dance like no ones watching (but we’re watching, so keep in rhythm).

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

Support comedians, laugh loudly, have an open mind, and try to enjoy different voices.

The last thing we need is another son-of-a-famous-dude giving us average jokes written by a team of funnier people than him taking all the glory away from other comics.

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

Hannah Gadsby, like the rest of the world!

What do you love about Melbourne?

Melbourne is a creative hub that inspires artists and performers with amazing street life, a fantastic array of culture and — as an antipodean longing for dreamy cafes — great coffee!

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

All of my friends are hilarious and ridiculous, so being surrounded by incredibly funny women has really inspired me.

Margaret Cho was the first comedian I ever loved, Chelsea Handler the first who I ever watched obsessively, Amy Schumer inspired me to do my first gig and Sarah Silverman inspired me to get creative.

JAKE HOWIE, LET THEM EAT JAKE, MARCH 26-APRIL 7, TASMA TERRACE 1, 6 PARLIAMENT PLACE. BOOK TICKETS