Celebrated comic Shayne Hunter presents two experiences covering different aspects of relationships at this year's Melbourne International Comedy Festival (MICF).
The first is 'Swipe Left For Drama' – a stand-up show performed by Shayne unearthing love pitfalls and linking them to our need for validation, promising just as many laughs as nuggets of emotional wisdom.
Shayne entered the comedy scene after being selected for Melbourne International Comedy Festival's 'The Comedy Zone' in 2010. Now he's right back where it began! Shayne has now got more than a decade of performances under his belt from across Australasia. He's toured shows on addiction, ideology and a focus on crowd work – as well as hosted true crime walking tours and combined activism with comedy for fundraising.
Next up at the festival, for the more musically inclined: 'TOXIC', a musical comedy, co-written by Shayne and international award-wining artist Hannan Azlan, about dysfunctional relationships. This extravaganza aims to dive deep into the intricacies of the human mind, where you can expect to giggle, try not to cry, and prepare to cringe. 'TOXIC' draws from personal heartbreak, trauma and baggage, and is paired with some sick beats.
To learn more about these shows, we spoke to Shayne ahead of MICF.
Firstly, tell us a bit about 'Swipe Left For Drama'.
A stand-up comedy show about miscommunication in relationships, how our early childhood relationships shape the way we interpret and interact with partners in adulthood.
What inspired you to put this show together?
Mummy issues.
'Swipe Left For Drama'
What’s your favourite thing about it?
It makes accessible, clear and funny the ways we emotionally regulate, understand or misunderstand ourselves, and other funny things. Plus, why developing awareness of this is the path to mental health and safe love.
Next up is 'TOXIC', and it’s a musical comedy! What’s this one all about?
It is a comedy musical where comedians act out common relationship arguments, and between scenes, a comedian playing the role of a psychologist explains what is the psychology of the argument and how the couple lack insight into what their arguments are really about. This show is based on a lot of research into this subject, and we hope that audiences can laugh about these experiences and take away insights that they can apply in their lives.
Who is 'TOXIC' for?
Everyone that values relationships and likes deep humour.
What sorts of music can audiences expect in this show?
Catchy pop, and indie folk.
'TOXIC'
Why do you think comedy is such a powerful tool for introspection?
It allows us to see things that are true but scary, in a safe way.
How are you hoping audiences respond to these two shows at the festival?
Inspired to better their relationship with themselves and others.
'Swipe Left For Drama' plays Speakeasy Theatre – The Vault Theatre 27 March-21 April. 'TOXIC' plays Speakeasy Theatre – The Apollo Theatre 9-21 April (Melbourne International Comedy Festival).
