As the member for Batman, the Federal electorate which takes in Thornbury, Ferguson’s office is pretty much just around the corner from the Theatre. The sold-out show was patronised by disgruntled local residents, activists, political junkies and more than a few members of the Trent McCarthy fan club there to share a laugh at the frustrations of dealing with your local MP.
While the concept for the show wasn’t as concrete as I would have liked, McCarthy is one of the most earnest and humble comedians you will ever see. There was no attitude here, no malice (real or fabricated) directed at the audience, just a warm, comfortable vibe which flowed throughout the room. McCarthy was at his best when he ventured into vignettes about his own life and family. These genuinely funny insights seemed more natural and accessible than the central thread of the show which featured McCarthy riffing on anagrams of Ferguson’s name, trying to reveal the man within.
Incidentally A Sign From Nature? is an anagram for Martin Ferguson. Just in case you hadn’t worked that out yet.
BY JOSH FERGEUS
