Who is Mike McLeish?
Mike is a family man who always wanted to pursue comedy but got kidnapped 20 years ago by musical theatre. He has finally found his way back to comedy – via TV, impro, cruise ships and cabaret – just in time for his 50th. The timing seems weird, but it’s actually perfect. Despite his reclusive proclivities, Mike loves a live audience almost as much as he loves his wife and kids. Almost!
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Maybe eat more leafy greens, and less Haagen Dazs. But that’s a pipe dream. Ice cream is life.
Who inspires you and why?
My wife, Fiona, for her work ethic, her compassion and her dedication to her friends and family; my daughters for their senses of humour, their big weird brains and their big beautiful hugs; my mum for her legacy of kindness and love.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Give people an excuse to feel big things. I think providing an opportunity for people to share that sort of experience together – at a gig or in a theatre – is an honourable pursuit.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
A small town on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. The beach is beautiful but never packed, there’s one shop and plenty of wildlife. When we’re there, time loses all meaning.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
The Butterfly Club, of course! It’s a place with art baked into its walls; as eclectic as it is life-affirming. The world needs more Butterfly Clubs.
What are you currently reading?
World Within a Song by Jeff Tweedy, and The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami.
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve been loving Laura Marling’s Patterns in Repeat from 2024. Chappell Roan and Billie Eilish are on high rotation in our house. I’m also hooked on local duo Charm of Finches.
Happiness is?
A tub of ice cream and one spoon.
What does the future hold for you?
Right now, making sure I’m there for my daughters; for my youngest as she conquers Year 12, and for my eldest as she deals with directing a diva (me). Fiona and I have a bunch of projects that we’re really excited about working on together. And I plan on becoming one of the best musical comedians in the world before I turn 70. Plenty of time.
Mike steps back into the spotlight with Pensive Like A Fox – currently playing at The Butterfly Club, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, until 20 April 2025. For more information, visit: www.comedyfestival.com.au for details.
Image: Mike McLeish (supplied)