Melbourne International Comedy Festival comedian Q&A: Melanie Bracewell, Melodrama

Melanie Bracewell tackles embarrassing tales of young adulthood, and slam dunks the punchlines.

Melanie Bracewell Melbourne Comedy Festival 2019.

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

Laughs! Jokes! Embarrassing stories. Well, I didn’t think the stories were too embarrassing until I had to do the show in front of my parents and suddenly realised.

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If you’re new to MICF, tell us about you.

Hi, I’m Melanie Bracewell, my star sign is Cancer and I love basketball. I’m a young, very tall gal trying to make it in the big city. You might’ve seen me on TV, you might not have, I won’t judge you for it.

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

Is it a bit too broad to say everyone? Probably.

If you grew up in the age of Blues Clues’ and Neopets you’re my kinda crowd.

You should see my show because it won some awards and therefore is objectively good. I don’t make the rules.

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

Just relax and enjoy the show and remember we are trying to make you have a good time. The more fun you have as an audience, the more fun we have as a performer and the better show we will do. It’s a lovely cycle of lols.

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

I am fizzing to see Maria Bamford, I’ve been such a massive fan of her for a long time, it’ll be pretty surreal.

In terms of NZ acts I know you guys will love Pax Assadi, Guy Montgomery, and The Fan Brigade are excellent.

What stands out to you about Melbourne?

I have been to Melbourne many times and it is a wonderful city.

I’m not just saying that to sway the Melbourne ticket-buying public, I mean it.

Everyone is lovely, the cafes have delicious food and basing on Melbourne tinder, the people are very attractive and often have cute dogs.

Who or what is your comedic inspiration, and why?

I have many comedic inspirations.

I think the type of comedy that mostly shaped me would be Monty Python and a little bit later on, Flight of the Conchords. It’s pretty special seeing kiwi comedy hit the big-time, and made me realise it’s possible to have some massive dreams, even if I come from a tiny little island that often gets left off maps.

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

If anyone knows any pick-up basketball games running in Melbourne during the festival please hit me up. I need to dunk on some people.

MELANIE BRACEWELL, MELODRAMA, MARCH 28-APRIL 21, Mantra on Russell — Mantra Three, 222 Russell St. BOOK TICKETS.