The Briefing

Melissa McGlensey presents, as a part of the 2023 Melbourne International Comedy Festival

The Briefing
Written and performed by Melissa McGlensey
Directed by Alasdair Tremblay-Birchall

You’ve never experienced a presser like this!

Birthed from Melissa McGlensey’s obsession with global politics and love of biting satire, The Briefing is a dynamic, quick-witted, genre-defying show that invites MICF audiences to join the press pack and take aim.

Professional Hecklers; this one’s for you.

With her political aspirations in full flight, right-wing blowhard Sarah Huckabee Sanders has embarked on an international propaganda tour. The former White House Press Secretary (turned Fox News host) is now the Governor of Arkansas, but that doesn't mean she's done spreading Trumpism far and wide. And if you’re thinking Australia won’t get caught in the crosshairs… FAKE NEWS.

A fast-paced and highly entertaining comment on the unique historical and political moment we find ourselves in, The Briefing is a clever combination of political theatre, partisan nonsense, and wonderfully dark humour. Unlike other events during MICF, audiences are also encouraged to heckle and challenge during this show. Game on. She’s ready for you. *cracks knuckles*

Directed by comedian/writer Alasdair Tremblay-Birchall (Magma, Teleport!, Mad as Hell), The Briefing offers Melbourne International Comedy Festival lovers a wonderfully surprising experience. Running for a limited time at Campari House in Hardware Lane, grab your press passes, ready your mics, and don’t forget your questions!

Melissa McGlensey is a writer (The Onion, Reductress) and comedian (Soothplayers: Improvised Shakespeare, The Big HooHaa) who relocated from the US to Melbourne. She has studied, performed, and taught improv and stand-up comedy all over the world and her work is political, absurd, and interactive. The Briefing is her debut solo work, showcasing her signature brand of comedy.

Written by Melissa McGlensey
Performed by Melissa McGlensey with Felix MacFarlane
Directed by Alasdair Tremblay-Birchall
Game Design by Douglas Wilson
Image by Nick Robertson
Publicity by Sassy Red PR

★★★★ “Incredibly funny” - ArtsHub
“…delivered some excellent belly laughs…” - Beat Magazine
“A brilliant example of political comedy.” - Squirrel Comedy
“… demonstrates great writing and performing talent…” - Stage Whispers

10 – 23 April 2023
Mon – Sun 7pm
Opening Night Wednesday 12 April, 7pm
Tickets: $25 Full, $22 Concession, $20 Grps 6+, Previews and Tuesdays
Bookings: 03 9245 3788 or online at www.comedyfestival.com.au/2023/shows/the-briefing-with-melissa-mcglensey
Venue: Campari House - 23-25 Hardware Ln, Melbourne CBD
www.melissamcglensey.com

Duration: 50 minutes no interval
Suitable for audiences 15+
Warnings: contains strong coarse language, political, religious and/or racial themes, and strong sexual references