On the Couch with Susan Provan

Susan Provan Arts Review On the CouchWho is Susan Provan?
Susan Provan is the director of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and political junkie tragic.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
More exercise.

Who inspires you and why?
Gillian Triggs – for putting conscience first, for courage, intelligence and grace under heavy fire.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Try to change minds, one person at a time. Sometimes the global perspective is just too daunting, although it’s important as a driver!

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Mornington Peninsula in summer. An easy drive from home so I don’t need to worry about an aeroplane pack. Lovely beaches, great food options and I love watching my daughter do sailing lessons. So peaceful.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I’d take them to Monday night comedy at The Local in St Kilda to see the best local comics. Then to a show at Theatreworks or the MTC or Malthouse depending on what’s on, and a live music gig at The Corner Hotel, or Howler or Cherry Bar or Caravan Music Club for a start. And one day we would have to lie on the floor at the NGV and admire the stained glass ceiling and check out the Australian collection at the Ian Potter. I think our cultural scene describes the best of our community for a visitor.

What are you currently reading?
A lot of advertising copy and a lot of contracts. In the minutes before I fall asleep I’m reading Bruce Springsteen’s autobiography. A beautifully written, revealing showbiz story.

What are you currently listening to?
Politics on Radio National and News Radio, and podcasts – from Marc Maron’s WTF to Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas’ Party Room.

Happiness is?
That first sight of Edinburgh Castle en route from airport to apartment at the start of the Edinburgh Fringe.

What does the future hold for you?
A growing daughter, sharing the things I love with her and finding out what are going to be the things that she really loves.

Running 29 March to 23 April, the full program for the 2017 Melbourne International Comedy Festival has been announced. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au for details.

Image: Susan Provan