Political Asylum

It’s a Friday night, the air thick with a humming breeze of the settling spring, strolling down Errol Street in North Melbourne to the Lithuanian Club for a distinctive entertainment blend of comedy and politics.

Peddled as the stage for intelligent, topical, political based humour, Political Asylum is ordinarily hosted out of the Brunswick Green on a fortnightly basis. Irregular spots include the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and this year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival, where this year’s U.S. Election Comedy Special gathered some of the country’s smartest topical comedians to present a satirical guide to the impending U.S. Election.

Hosted by Toby Halligan and Matthew Kenneally, the two night event was an absolute standout of the festival, presenting a quick witted hour of well spun current affairs.

My personal standout was Alasdair Trembay-Birchall, who ripped the pace right out from under us with a quiet tribute to his Northern homeland, ‘Meanwhile in Canada’. Whilst the others in the comedy troupe tended to go for quick witted, high energy humour, Alasdair toddled on stage to highlight the contrast between the volatile nature of US politics versus the more proud, peaceful Canadian government. His jabs were subtle, seriously smart and on point, his manner awkward, yet charming – a really fantastic way to break up the dynamic of the show.

Michael Shafar also offered something unique – an untouchable comedic style that can only be born, not bred. What should have been profane was almost endearing; jibes that would have otherwise strongly offended came across in a sharp, sexy, intellectual manner. As much as he swore and insulted and ridiculed, it was all backed by a glint in his eye and a sweet, crooked smile that created an interpersonal pull from the audience. Definitely one to watch.

Closed by Rod Quantock, the godfather of Australian comedy, this show was filled with hilarious current affairs and barely a break in gut straining laughter. Whilst the Fringe run (and the Festival itself) are over, there are no shortage of Politcal Asylum events or shows to follow these brilliant comedians.

Find out all about the events for Political Asylum at The Brunswick Green through http://www.politicalasylum.com.au/