Who is Tim Ferguson?
Good question. Ask Matron!
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I wouldn’t change a damn thing. I’m already too lucky.
Who inspires you and why?
My creative partners Marc Gracie and Chris Thompson are a constant inspiration. Their skills far outstrip mine, but they’re quiet about it. Their knowledge of narrative, comedy, TV & film and the world market is extraordinary. They say anything can be done. And they do it.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Teach the ancient principles of comedy. Laughter makes the world go up and down vigorously.
What’s your favourite holiday destination and why?
Mount Forest, Ontario. No tourists. Bacon galore.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Are you sure this is an arts magazine?
What are you currently reading?
Hugh Riminton’s autobiography – Minefields: A Life in the News Game. Brilliant book, amazing life!
What are you currently listening to?
ACDC. Loud. Clears the mind.
Happiness is?
My Star Wars toys, my Canadian and a free weekend.
What does the future hold for you?
World-touring teaching narrative screen comedy, doing the new live shows, shooting the new movie, publishing the new novel, making the podcast, the sitcoms, the orchestral storytelling show. Also, obviously, death.
Tim Ferguson lectures in narrative comedy and screenwriting, including at New York University & AFTRS. He’s written, script-edited and directed movies and sitcoms. He tours the world performing with the Doug Anthony AllStars. Tim’s written dozens of live stage shows and TV light entertainment programmes here and in the UK. He is the author of bestselling writer’s manual The Cheeky Monkey – Writing Narrative Comedy (Currency Press).
Tim will be bringing his acclaimed Comedy Writing Masterclass to Canberra (24 & 25 November); Sydney (26 – 30 November); and Brisbane (8 & 9 December). For more information, visit: www.cheekymonkeycomedy.com for details.
Image: Tim Ferguson (supplied)