Who is Jessica Barton?
Jessica Barton is a quadruple-threat – actor, singer, dancer and clown from Naarm / Melbourne Australia. I’m an Aries, extremely ambitious, rather impulsive yet deeply organised. I love admin, I love love, I hate olives, I hate self-operating vacuum cleaners (Roombas?). At one time in my life I wanted to be a lawyer, but discovered I was too emotional. I’m extremely competitive, I love yoga and hiking, and I dream of performing at Shakespeare’s Globe one day.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
If I wanted to do something differently, I would get on and just do it. If I don’t like something, if I’m not happy, if I’m not comfortable with something, I’ll set about changing it. Life is too short and I’m not someone for regret, I think it’s a laboured concept. Even the mistakes I make in life, the people I’ve disappointed, I wouldn’t give it back. Right now? I would probably have drank some more water today. I’m going to go do that now.
Who inspires you and why?
I have a list on my phone titled FEMALE POWER, and it contains actors, comedians, creatives, characters, or entire movies that have made me feel so empowered. The list is incredibly long but some items include: Princess Diana, Elastigirl from The Incredibles, Jodie Comer (particularly in Prima Facie), the entirety of Fleabag, Miss Julie, Ali Wong, Virginia Gay, Lady Macbeth.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
If I had the biggest mouth and tummy in the world and could physically eat up all of the carbon dioxide being released in the air, I would. If I could be like Santa and go to every house and install solar panels and renewable energy sources in one whole evening for the mere exchange of a carrot and some oat milk, I would. If I could sit all of the male leaders of this world to have a cup of tea and a real deep chat, then HYPNOTISE THEM with the strong powers of empathy, I would!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Favourite destination I’ve been to thus far, France, and all of it. Strasbourg, Lake Annecy, Avignon, Paris. It has all of the things in Question 9 that I believe amounts to happiness. But a dream destination – Ireland, in a campervan, hiking through the hills, learning Celtic songs to sing, dancing in pubs.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
As I am currently based in London, I would take any visiting Australians to Hampstead Heath for a swim in the cold ponds – my favourite activity all throughout the year (even in 2 degree mornings).
What are you currently reading?
Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell.
What are you currently listening to?
Want: Sexual Fantasies by Anonymous by Gillian Anderson (audiobook).
Happiness is?
Good health. Good food. Good coffee. Good wine. Good friends. Good theatre. Good family. Good nature.
What does the future hold for you?
This year? Dirty Work will debut at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, then the Soho Theatre in London, then at Underbelly Cowgate at the Edinburgh Fringe. Afterward? Hopefully, a Chateau in France where all of my Clown friends can come to eat, drink and make wine together. After my debut at Shakespeare’s Globe.
Jessica stars as Mary Floppins in Dirty Work – which will be presented at The Motley Bauhaus, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, from 24 March – 6 April 2025. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Jessica Barton – photo by Charlie Ashford