Award-winning comedian Tom Ballard (‘Deadloch’, ‘Tonightly’, ‘Fisk’, ‘Serious Danger’) is presenting the world premiere of his new play, ‘jks: a comedy(?)’.
A line-up of comedians are hanging out backstage at a weekly stand-up gig. They’re trading jokes and talking sh.t, when they learn that a comedy legend has died. And this is a comedy legend who, depending on who you ask, leaves behind a lifetime of laughter. . . Or a legacy of bigotry and pain.
With this in mind, debate begins. Was this comedian actually funny. . . Or just an embarrassment? Should he be praised? Cancelled? Is being ‘funny’ all that matters, and what is even the point of telling jokes anyway? How much harm or good can they do, who can say what, and who decides?!
‘jks’ was longlisted for the 2025 Griffin Playwriting Award and the recipient of a Fringe Fund Cash to Create actors including Ballard, Kevin Hofbauer, Jordan Barr, Tiana Hogben, and beloved stand-up powerhouse Nicky Barry.
‘jks: a comedy(?)’ plays Trades Hall (Melbourne) 1-12 October.
