Who is Emily Tresidder?
Emily Tresidder is the type of person who doesn’t often speak in third person, but when she does, my oh my does she. I’m a comedian, podcaster and presenter, and I think quite a nice person. I love performing and watching live performance and really really love carbs. A lot. Too much.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I think I would try and care less about what other people think of me. I think it’s so easy to get caught up in feeling bad about yourself because you’re so worried about what other people think, just live your life, do you.
Who inspires you and why?
My mum is incredibly inspiring to me, she’s the strongest woman I know, and I think it’s incredible that she raised me, and is so supportive and has always been so. In terms of my career I’m inspired by so many different people everyday. I think performance is not always easy, and having the courage to find your voice and run with it, that’s inspiring. People that are still hustling away and who are brilliant, but aren’t household names yet, that’s inspiring, the resilience, the determination.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think there are practical ways to actually make a difference, especially in terms of our environmental footprint. So I’m already doing that as best I can, swapping out plastic, using reusable products and natural based cleaners etc. As far as a more career based impact, I just aspire to ignite joy in people who come to my show, laughter is a powerful and wonderful thing, so sharing that with audiences is something that is super important to me.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
That’s tricky! I don’t really have a favourite place, I love exploring new cities, and people watching, so many many places allow me to do that. I went to Nepal last year and that was pretty incredible!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Hmm, definitely Naked For Satan rooftop bar, as the view is lovely and often there are great drink specials. Walking around Fitzroy and Eddy gardens is also a must for me, it definitely gives a nice taster of what Melbourne is.
What are you currently reading?
I want to sound cool, but absolutely nothing. I am in the middle of the show and it really takes up a lot of time and energy. So unfortunately, nothing!
What are you currently listening to?
I love Jessie J, I think she has some really empowering songs and they really pump me up. I’ve also been listening to 2000’s playlists on Spotify, as they also pump me up on the way to the show.
Happiness is?
Whatever you make of it. Aspiring for ‘happiness’ I think is unattainable, because what is happiness. I think getting to a place where you are healthy, both mentally and physically and surrounded by people whom you love and who love you, is very close to defining ‘happiness’ – but I don’t think it is something tangible, and I believe you have to choose to be okay with some stuff that hurts, or makes you grumpy to actually start to live in a state of fulfilment. Perfection is impossible. Life is not perfect, and that’s where the magic happens.
What does the future hold for you?
I’m actually going on a huge trip after comedy festival. Vietnam to Iceland by land or sea, with a cheeky side trip to headline some shows in Malaysia, so the future is bright, and busy and exciting!
Emily presents Just Doing It at Trades Hall as part of the 2019 Melbourne International Comedy Festival until 21 April. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au or www.frontiertouring.com for details.
Image: Emily Tresidder – photo by Matt Hofmann