#17 The Man Who Became Peter Cook: Shaun Micallef and the Combs of Comedy
Aug 23, 2023
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Australian comedy legend Shaun Micallef embodies the essence of Peter Cook through satirical and surrealist humor. Topics include the legacy of comedy icons like Peter Cook and Dudley Moore, the essence of comedy performances, beliefs and superstitions, writing process, self-control in TV production, and a heartwarming gift exchange of Spike Milligan's signed book.
Shaun Micallef mirrors comedic legends in his satirical style.
Barry Humphries infuses social commentary for captivating performances.
Unorthodox approach to creativity and managing personal and professional life discussed.
Deep dives
History of Soho's Comedy Clubs
In Soho, London, historic blue plaques mark the locations of significant events like where John Logie Baird demonstrated television. Peter Cook's first satirical club in the UK, co-founded by Peter Cook, hosted renowned stand-ups like Lenny Bruce, impacting the comedy scene.
Barry Humphries: The Master of Comedy
Barry Humphries, known for his character Dame Edna, impressed audiences with his unique comedic genius. His blend of social commentary and satire pushed boundaries, captivating viewers and making them part of the performance.
Craftsmanship behind Comedy Shows
Comedians like Barry Humphries and their meticulous attention to detail in performances showcased a deeper level of craftsmanship in comedy. The ability to blend humor with societal insights and engage the audience on multiple levels underscores the artistry within comedic performances.
The Importance of Random Acts and Soft Rock
The speaker discusses his tendency to experience random moments and embrace unconventional behaviors. From tackling the concept of hidden talents to exploring superstitions and the surreal experience of encountering a ghostly apparition, the podcast delves into the speaker's inclination towards the unusual. Additionally, the speaker's practice of periodically abstaining from everyday items like salt and sugar sheds light on a unique approach to self-discovery and control.
Navigating Comedy, Creativity, and Parenthood
The podcast episode delves into the speaker's creative process, highlighting his unorthodox approach to writing without plotting, whether for sitcoms or novels. Amid discussions on the entertainment industry, the speaker shares insights into his experience producing television shows and effectively managing creative decisions. Moreover, the podcast touches on the speaker's balancing act between pursuing his professional goals and cherishing familial responsibilities, particularly as a father of three boys.
Shaun Micallef is an Australian comedy legend. He's an award winning writer, comedian and actor, having starred in and written for television, film, radio and books. Shaun’s style of humour is satirical, surrealist, and a blend of his comedic heroes: Peter Cook, Dudley Moore, Peter Sellers, Monty Python, The Marx Brothers, and Morecambe and Wise. His new book, Tripping Over Myself: A Memoir of a Life in Comedy, is available now.
You can get in touch with Dan Schreiber on Twitter and Instagram (@Schreiberland). In his bio, you'll find the link to our Discord channel - a global community of likeminded weirdos!
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