THIS week we speak with Jim Hallawell, another local comedian appearing at the upcoming Bendigo Comedy Festival.<\/p>\n
What initially motivated you to have a go at being a comedian?<\/strong><\/p>\n Initially it was something I always wanted to do, it\u2019s not something that I went around telling people though. So once I\u2019d seen that local boys Ash, Cody and Shaun had established a scene in Bendigo I knew it was something I needed to become a part of. I also have always liked making people laugh.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Do you reckon there are different styles of comedy? If so, how would you describe your own style and how did you come to develop it?<\/strong><\/p>\n Yeah, for sure there are different styles. I\u2019d describe my comedy as true stories exaggerated to the extreme, and quirky wit with a few props thrown in for good measure.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What do you do with yourself in the times when you\u2019re not trying to crack people up?<\/strong><\/p>\n Unfortunately, I\u2019m a bricklayer most days… I love to bonsai. Last year I became a dad, so my little girl keeps me busy most of the time.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Which other comedians, local or otherwise, inspire you and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n I like a bunch of comedians so it\u2019s hard to say which ones inspire me. I get inspired by big names like Dave Chappelle and Jerry Seinfeld. I love Rick Mayall but I also get inspired from just going to our local gigs and watching Aussie comedians. The more you watch the more you get inspired basically.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are some highlights or fond memories you have from your comedy exploits up until now?<\/strong><\/p>\n I think a highlight for me would be performing my first solo show at the Goldmines Hotel. Having the pressure of making posters, finding the venue, promoting the show, selling tickets and getting together 40 minutes of comedy was a real eye opener. The night was a complete success, and it was a great feeling to know that I might be able to achieve the crazy dream of comedy.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Do you have any gigs coming up around the traps in the near future?<\/strong><\/p>\n I will be at the Bushman\u2019s Pig Inn on the 22 September for Clean Comedy hosted by Mikey Dynon.<\/p>\n I\u2019m in Poppa\u2019s Showcase for the Bendigo Comedy Festival on 15 October at The Engine Room<\/p>\n I\u2019m at The Cambrian (200 Arnold Street, North Bendigo) open mic on the third Wednesday of every month trying out new jokes, and I\u2019m sure I\u2019ll pop up at some of the other gigs we have going in Bendigo.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n