Pilot project helps comic take off

YOUNG stand-up comedian Erin Almeida will make her mark on the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival as part of a split bill supporting up-and-comers.

The Loreto College year 12 student, who won the 2022 national grand final of MICF’s student comedy competition Class Clowns, is preparing to present her first long-form performance as part of the Pilot project.

Almeida’s half-hour show, Brownie Points, will focus on her life as a young regional Victorian with Indian heritage, and aim to buck stereotypes.

“Coming up with material, I draw inspiration from everyday life, jotting down funny observations that catch my attention,” she said.

“It’s a mix of spontaneity, observation, and trial and error until I find the perfect punchline.”

“I want my comedy to take me to different places and enable me to connect with all kinds of people, and bring light to matters related to race and ethnicity with a humorous take.

“I would love to one day perform in the city where my parents came from, Mumbai.

“It is a dream I aspire to turn into a reality, I’d love to connect with an audience that shares the vibrancy of my heritage.”

Since her Class Clowns win, Almeida has performed at different events, including as host of the 2023 Ballarat Youth Awards.

Pilot has been developed by producers who are aiming to champion and highlight five diverse young comic talents throughout the major festival, and provide pathways for them to succeed.

Also on the split bill are fellow Class Clowns winner, Patti Fawcett from Castlemaine, as well as Mali Hawke, Stella Hall, and Emma Armitage-Ho.

Former Ballarat Grammar student, Hannah DeBuhr, who is a comedian and graphic designer, is part of the production behind the scenes.

Pilot will be performed at DoubleTree by Hilton from Wednesday 27 March to Monday 1 April and visit bit.ly/3u1tLZn for tickets.