It's a one-night-only spectacle – a showcase of LOLs from all walks of life within our rainbow family. Participating members of that family include Charlie Lewin, Madeleine Stewart, Scout Boxall, Alex Ward and Zoe Sitas, and it will all be hosted by none other than Mel Buttle.
It's the camp comedy event of the year.
Ahead of 'Laugh Out Proud' 2022 (which sold out in 2020 and 2021!), participating comedian Charlie Lewin pens an open letter reflecting on his beginnings in comedy to now.
Going to a super conservative Catholic boys school, I always knew I was different. And by that I mean I was destined to be a really indulgent stage actor. Ever since I was a kid I was determined to have that quintessential Aussie acting trajectory: you go to NIDA, you get a walk-on role in an LA slasher film, and then you immediately return to 'Neighbours' till you get tenure with Paul Robinson. I'd retire at 65, a much loved Women's Weekly micro-celebrity, and that would be that. Bliss.
It wasn't till I got to uni and started doing comedy that I realised how much fun I could be having. I started joining sketch troupes and musicals, and taking on any role that let me have fun with a crowd. By the time I tried my hand at stand-up, I was completely hooked. Through stand-up I could tap into stuff that I had held back my entire life. It was electric and exhilarating, and just so much bloody fun. But above everything, I finally felt like I was being celebrated for exactly who I was – not a role I was playing, or a mould I was filling – just me.
Since working as a stand-up and debuting my solo at Melbourne International Comedy Festival last year, I've felt more connected with the queer community and my own queer identity than ever before. My show 'Cockatiel' is all about spreading your wings and finding your flock – something I know the queer community will resonate with. Coming to Mardi Gras this year for 'Laugh Out Proud' and my Sydney debut of 'Cockatiel' is such a full circle moment for me. I pride myself on making comedy that speaks to the gays, theys and theatre kids – and what better place to do that than the heart of queer Australia at Mardi Gras!”
'Laugh Out Proud' plays Enmore Theatre 25 February as part of Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras. Charlie also plays his own show at Factory Theatre 26-27 February.
