Who is Dan Crowley?
I’m 23 years old, born and raised in Melbourne, and I occupy the pretty tiny Venn diagram intersection between ‘stand-up comedian’ and ‘Ancient Greek student’. I spend my days writing my Master’s thesis on Greek history, and my nights doing silly little comedy bits on stage.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I often think that I’d like to be an extremely gifted professional athlete. But one who doesn’t have to work hard at it – success just comes naturally, and I’m a hero to millions.
Who inspires you and why?
I once heard Matthew McConaughey say that his role model is himself in 10 years’ time. I think that’s a pretty ridiculous answer, so I’ll say the comedian James Acaster. His comedy is so delightfully weird and authentic, and I’d love to be able to replicate that, but also not replicate that, because I’ve found my own version of weird and authentic.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I think to make a difference in the world you have to find something you’re really good at, and then be really kind and generous in sharing that with as many people as you possibly can.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Edinburgh, and not just because it has the biggest Fringe Festival in the world. I did an exchange semester there a few years ago and fell madly in love with the place. Just a stunning, gorgeous, beautiful, totally magical city.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
I would take them to the Vault Theatre at Speakeasy HQ to watch my excellent comedy show Fantastic. Great Move. Well Done Dan. Outside of that, probably Edinburgh Gardens to watch the sunset from the big hill near the Brunswick St Oval. A simply unbeatable view.
What are you currently reading?
Bodies of Light by Jennifer Down.
What are you currently listening to?
Angel in Realtime by Gang of Youths. (I’m always listening to this album, because, in my humble opinion, it’s the greatest album of all time.)
Happiness is?
Doing something you love, in a place you love, surrounded by people you love. (And also catching a great comedy show at the Vault Theatre at Speakeasy HQ during the Comedy Festival).
What does the future hold for you?
Plenty of things, I hope. A really enjoyable run of shows at the Comedy Festival. A holiday to Edinburgh. Effortless success as an extremely gifted professional athlete. Lots of sunsets at Edinburgh Gardens. And maybe getting to meet James Acaster.
Dan presents his show Fantastic. Great Move. Well Done Dan at The Vault Theatre – Speakeasy HQ, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, until 20 April 2023. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Dan Crowley (supplied)