Winni the Wizard is bringing her magical laughing spells to Yarraville as the only family show in the west at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Also known as Lisa Gatenby, the proud westie is excited to be bringing her talents to the area during the school holidays.
“Winni the Wacky Wizard of the West is a 150-year-old wizard who lives here in Melbourne’s Yarraville,” she said.
“I quit my corporate career two years ago to do this full time.During this time I developed the character and toured around Australia.”
Although she is still working out the kinks of her new career, Ms Gatenby is enjoying her performing success.
“I am still finding the right balance of business and the level of performance but so far I am really loving it,” she said.
“I love everything about it. I grew up performing, doing dance and drama and all of that so I love being on stage and especially performing to kids.”
Performing for kids had always been a passion and something that happened naturally for Ms Gatenby.
“I started doing stand-up and improvisation and then just merged into kids comedy, which I find has a big market,” she said.
“Seeing those kids get so into it with my character, they just love her and she’s so silly.“
A proud Yarraville local, Ms Gatenby is thrilled to be performing in her own community.
“I love how there is such passion for being a westie, so it is nice to be performing at the Yarraville Club.
The show will run until Sunday, April 14, at the Yarraville Club, 135 Stephen Street, Yarraville.
Details: www.comedyfestival.com.au/2024/shows/winni-wizard-and-her-magical-smells
Jennifer Pittorino
