This piece was published before the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
'What's in a name?' is the question comedian Steph Tisdell broaches in her new show 'Baby Beryl'.
More succinctly, the question Steph bases the show on is 'have you ever met a baby named Beryl?'. Just for the record, have you ever seen a baby pigeon, for that matter? Doesn't matter, moving on.
Join the rising star of Australian comedy Steph Tisdell as she examines baby-naming trends, ponders some of life's biggest mysteries, dissects the human condition and tries to find a baby Beryl in a hilarious new hour of comedy.
We catch up with Steph to talk about the show, what's new about it and the most ridiculous baby name she's ever heard, and trust us, it's a real doozie!
This show is all about names. Where and when did you come up with the idea to focus on this?
Well, actually, the show has had a big reshape since it's inception following a bump in the road that now shapes the narrative of the show. I don't know how else to say that, but an audience member will understand once they see the show.
Do you have any names lined up for if you ever decide you want children?
I want to name a daughter after my nan who I never met: Violet Syska.
What is the most ridiculous baby name (aside from Beryl!) you've ever come across?
Crystal Methanie. No joke.
It's a bit of a stand-up meets chat show. How do you think you'll do as a chat show host?
So far it's been pretty cool! The guest I'm chatting with is made to feel like a mate chatting with me on the lounge and I'll do any required patter with the audience if necessary.
Have you had any particularly interesting experiences when it comes to your own name?
Mostly that people always call be Stephanie, which is my name, but I never go by it. I prefer Steph. When I used to work on the phones people always thought my name was Daphne?
What are you most looking forward to about presenting this hybrid of a show?
This show is about connection and authenticity. I get an opportunity to champion the voice of a random audience member who'd like to chat. That's special to me.
How would you describe your style of comedy to someone who isn't 100 per cent familiar with your work?
A dickhead with a microphone who cares about heaps of stuff.
