WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:05.080 Imagine an artist who can just effortlessly pivot, 00:00:05.540 --> 00:00:07.860 making you roar with laughter one minute with 00:00:07.860 --> 00:00:11.220 some perfectly crafted sketch character, then 00:00:11.220 --> 00:00:13.359 bringing a whole theater to its feet with stand 00:00:13.359 --> 00:00:16.100 -up, and then completely shifting gears moves 00:00:16.100 --> 00:00:18.739 you really deeply by just openly sharing their 00:00:18.739 --> 00:00:21.940 most personal struggles. How does one person 00:00:21.940 --> 00:00:25.320 manage all that? Master it even, weaving comedy, 00:00:25.820 --> 00:00:30.239 drama, vulnerability. advocacy into this career 00:00:30.239 --> 00:00:33.340 that feels so coherent, so compelling. It's quite 00:00:33.340 --> 00:00:35.820 something. It is. Today, we're doing a deep dive 00:00:35.820 --> 00:00:37.960 into the extraordinary world of Felicity Ward. 00:00:38.340 --> 00:00:40.560 She's the acclaimed Australian comedian and actress 00:00:40.560 --> 00:00:42.939 and her journey. Well, it really is a masterclass 00:00:42.939 --> 00:00:46.299 in versatility. profound honesty. Absolutely. 00:00:46.500 --> 00:00:48.979 Our mission for you listening is to really unwrap 00:00:48.979 --> 00:00:51.259 her remarkable career. We want to explore every 00:00:51.259 --> 00:00:53.060 facet, you know, from those earliest comedic 00:00:53.060 --> 00:00:55.079 sparks in a small Aussie town. Right back to 00:00:55.079 --> 00:00:56.759 the beginning. All the way to her international 00:00:56.759 --> 00:01:00.200 triumphs on stage and screen and her really impactful 00:01:00.200 --> 00:01:03.009 kind of fearless advocacy work. And what stands 00:01:03.009 --> 00:01:05.150 out so powerfully, I think, with Felicity Ward's 00:01:05.150 --> 00:01:08.930 path is how she's consistently expanded her work 00:01:08.930 --> 00:01:12.250 across just this impressive range of artistic 00:01:12.250 --> 00:01:14.969 mediums. Yeah. She hasn't just done well in one 00:01:14.969 --> 00:01:16.609 area. She's continuously pushed the boundaries 00:01:16.609 --> 00:01:19.209 of her own craft. So throughout our chat, we'll 00:01:19.209 --> 00:01:22.049 connect the dots, look at her journey, not just 00:01:22.049 --> 00:01:24.090 focusing on what she's done, but really trying 00:01:24.090 --> 00:01:27.719 to examine how her unique approach, that blend 00:01:27.719 --> 00:01:32.120 of sharp wit and disarming vulnerability, how 00:01:32.120 --> 00:01:34.840 that resonates so powerfully with audiences all 00:01:34.840 --> 00:01:38.319 over the world. It's really an exploration into... 00:01:38.109 --> 00:01:40.969 Well, the essence of authentic artistic expression. 00:01:41.290 --> 00:01:42.969 Absolutely. And for you, the curious learner 00:01:42.969 --> 00:01:44.849 tuning in, this isn't just a biography, is it? 00:01:44.969 --> 00:01:47.510 It's more like a valuable shortcut to understanding 00:01:47.510 --> 00:01:51.409 how an artist evolves, how they masterfully blend 00:01:51.409 --> 00:01:54.370 humor with this really rare, profound honesty. 00:01:54.909 --> 00:01:56.930 So get ready for those aha moments, you know, 00:01:57.170 --> 00:01:59.409 the ones that reveal the true power of being 00:01:59.409 --> 00:02:02.109 genuinely, unequivocally yourself, even when 00:02:02.109 --> 00:02:05.239 you're in the spotlight. Let's dive in. OK, let's 00:02:05.239 --> 00:02:09.060 start right at the foundations, her roots. Kilcare, 00:02:09.500 --> 00:02:12.439 a, well, pretty tranquil coastal town in New 00:02:12.439 --> 00:02:14.919 South Wales, Australia. Yeah. And it's a place 00:02:14.919 --> 00:02:17.099 that, you know, on the surface feels like a completely 00:02:17.099 --> 00:02:19.599 different world from the bustling stages and 00:02:19.599 --> 00:02:21.240 bright lights where she'd eventually end up. 00:02:21.439 --> 00:02:24.479 World away. That contrast between that quiet 00:02:24.479 --> 00:02:28.509 upbringing and the... Frankly, fiercely competitive 00:02:28.509 --> 00:02:31.750 world of comedy. It just sparks your curiosity, 00:02:31.990 --> 00:02:33.830 doesn't it? It really does. You have to wonder. 00:02:34.310 --> 00:02:36.610 Does growing up somewhere like Kill Care, maybe 00:02:36.610 --> 00:02:39.150 with its slower pace, maybe a tight -knit community, 00:02:39.849 --> 00:02:42.969 does that foster a particular kind of observational 00:02:42.969 --> 00:02:46.270 skill? A unique perspective, perhaps. Exactly. 00:02:46.409 --> 00:02:48.490 Does it cultivate this view on the world that 00:02:48.490 --> 00:02:51.590 later becomes the fertile ground for a comedian's 00:02:51.590 --> 00:02:53.729 nuanced craft? It's fascinating to think about. 00:02:53.810 --> 00:02:56.050 You can almost picture her, can't you? As a young 00:02:56.050 --> 00:02:58.229 person just honing those skills, noticing the 00:02:58.229 --> 00:03:00.969 little quirks of local life. The small town characters. 00:03:01.330 --> 00:03:04.949 Yeah. The idiosyncrasies, finding humor in everyday 00:03:04.949 --> 00:03:08.009 stuff that maybe others just miss. It's an intriguing 00:03:08.009 --> 00:03:10.069 thought how those quiet beginnings might shape 00:03:10.069 --> 00:03:12.849 a voice destined for such a, well, such a public 00:03:12.849 --> 00:03:15.710 and impactful career. That initial environment, 00:03:16.129 --> 00:03:18.150 it must have contributed somehow. Or keen eye 00:03:18.150 --> 00:03:21.009 for detail, maybe. Finding the universal and 00:03:21.009 --> 00:03:23.490 the specific. Definitely. It's a compelling point 00:03:23.490 --> 00:03:26.590 about those early environments. For so many artists, 00:03:27.449 --> 00:03:29.629 you know, that quiet observation becomes the 00:03:29.629 --> 00:03:33.580 bedrock. And for Felicity Ward, that leap from 00:03:33.580 --> 00:03:36.360 kill care into the public eye, its first big 00:03:36.360 --> 00:03:39.560 outlet, was sketch comedy. Specifically, the 00:03:39.560 --> 00:03:42.740 Ronnie John's half hour. Ah, yes. The Logie nominated 00:03:42.740 --> 00:03:45.620 show. That's the one. Channel 10. It was a real 00:03:45.620 --> 00:03:47.599 crucible, a foundational training ground that 00:03:47.599 --> 00:03:49.759 first brought her significant public attention, 00:03:50.219 --> 00:03:51.960 both as a writer and a performer. And she was 00:03:51.960 --> 00:03:54.280 part of a troupe, right? The third degree. Exactly. 00:03:54.599 --> 00:03:56.620 Being part of a comedy troupe like that, creating 00:03:56.620 --> 00:03:59.580 and starring together, it's invaluable experience. 00:03:59.780 --> 00:04:03.060 It's intense, demanding. You need rapid character 00:04:03.060 --> 00:04:04.900 development. You're creating whole personas, 00:04:05.419 --> 00:04:08.250 backstories, arcs. Often super quickly. Right. 00:04:08.430 --> 00:04:11.250 Timing, too, must be crucial. Impeccable timing. 00:04:11.689 --> 00:04:14.110 Not just for punch lines, but physical comedy, 00:04:14.509 --> 00:04:16.990 character reactions, and collaborative writing. 00:04:17.129 --> 00:04:20.069 That's a really demanding art. Pitching, refining, 00:04:20.350 --> 00:04:23.290 sometimes cutting ideas ruthlessly, all for the 00:04:23.290 --> 00:04:25.879 sketch. It's like a pressure cooker? It absolutely 00:04:25.879 --> 00:04:29.180 is, but it doesn't just teach skills. It forges 00:04:29.180 --> 00:04:32.420 this adaptable, quick -thinking, comedic mind. 00:04:32.819 --> 00:04:35.519 You learn to inhabit characters, understand rhythm 00:04:35.519 --> 00:04:38.519 implicitly, work as a team, all under pressure 00:04:38.519 --> 00:04:41.779 to create fresh stuff. It refines every fundamental 00:04:41.779 --> 00:04:44.439 skill a comedian needs, maybe faster than stand 00:04:44.439 --> 00:04:46.589 -up alone could. And what really set her apart, 00:04:46.730 --> 00:04:49.209 even back then, was just the sheer range of characters 00:04:49.209 --> 00:04:51.490 she created on Ronnie John's. It was astonishing. 00:04:51.730 --> 00:04:53.730 We're not talking subtle shifts. She brought 00:04:53.730 --> 00:04:56.490 everything to life, from like a mischievous six 00:04:56.490 --> 00:04:59.149 -year -old poppy. With that innocent but cutting 00:04:59.149 --> 00:05:01.949 observation. Right. To this deeply philosophical, 00:05:02.310 --> 00:05:05.910 utterly cynical German nihilist, Gretchen, hilariously 00:05:05.910 --> 00:05:07.689 absurd. Gretchen was fantastic. And then there 00:05:07.689 --> 00:05:10.470 was Heidi, the quirky, often exasperated lawn 00:05:10.470 --> 00:05:13.310 bowls instructor. Very Australian suburban. So 00:05:13.310 --> 00:05:15.829 specific, yet relatable. And it wasn't just about 00:05:15.829 --> 00:05:18.529 voices or costumes, was it? It was about projecting 00:05:18.529 --> 00:05:22.189 distinct personalities, each with their own comedic 00:05:22.189 --> 00:05:25.290 angle. Internalizing them. Exactly. Pivoting 00:05:25.290 --> 00:05:28.649 from innocent child to cynical philosopher to 00:05:28.649 --> 00:05:31.730 eccentric sports nut, all in a fast paced sketch 00:05:31.730 --> 00:05:34.550 show that showed incredible versatility early 00:05:34.550 --> 00:05:37.889 on. A real mastery of character work, understanding 00:05:37.889 --> 00:05:40.990 human foibles. Absolutely. So these early TV 00:05:40.990 --> 00:05:43.430 successes where she showed off those diverse 00:05:43.430 --> 00:05:46.209 comedic muscles. they were pivotal. They didn't 00:05:46.209 --> 00:05:48.790 just introduce her, they announced her arrival 00:05:48.790 --> 00:05:51.870 as this multi -talented force, definitely set 00:05:51.870 --> 00:05:54.670 the stage for broader recognition. Indeed, that 00:05:54.670 --> 00:05:56.410 early character work, it was more than just showing 00:05:56.410 --> 00:05:58.949 off talent, it was strategic. By showing such 00:05:58.949 --> 00:06:01.870 range early, she avoided being pigeonholed, you 00:06:01.870 --> 00:06:03.610 know, which happens a lot in comedy. That's a 00:06:03.610 --> 00:06:05.949 great point, keeps options open. Exactly. That 00:06:05.949 --> 00:06:08.730 versatility was critical. It let her move seamlessly 00:06:08.730 --> 00:06:11.470 into other TV formats and importantly build this 00:06:11.470 --> 00:06:13.430 public persona that audiences found engaging 00:06:13.430 --> 00:06:16.470 and, well, surprising. She wasn't just the funny 00:06:16.470 --> 00:06:18.370 person from one type of sketch. She could be 00:06:18.370 --> 00:06:21.189 many funny people. And that definitely laid the 00:06:21.189 --> 00:06:23.629 groundwork for her becoming such a familiar face 00:06:23.629 --> 00:06:27.540 on Australian TV. After Ronnie Johns, she cemented 00:06:27.540 --> 00:06:30.259 her place with multiple appearances on ABC's 00:06:30.259 --> 00:06:33.540 Fix and Specs. Super popular show. Oh yeah, huge. 00:06:33.819 --> 00:06:35.639 And she wasn't just a one -off guest, she was 00:06:35.639 --> 00:06:39.120 a recurring panelist until 2011. Quick -witted 00:06:39.120 --> 00:06:41.959 banter, musical challenges. Great platform for 00:06:41.959 --> 00:06:44.600 that. Beyond that, she was on other primetime 00:06:44.600 --> 00:06:47.680 staples, real cornerstones of Aussie comedy like 00:06:47.680 --> 00:06:49.939 Thank God You're Here. Brilliant improv show. 00:06:50.079 --> 00:06:52.699 And Good News Week. These shows weren't just 00:06:52.699 --> 00:06:55.139 about performing her material, they showcased 00:06:54.959 --> 00:06:58.379 her improv skills, her rapid -fire wit reacting 00:06:58.379 --> 00:07:00.379 in the moment. Mm -hmm. Different kind of pressure. 00:07:00.699 --> 00:07:03.180 Totally. Primetime platforms cementing her as 00:07:03.180 --> 00:07:05.300 a recognizable talent, reaching a wide audience 00:07:05.300 --> 00:07:07.680 across the country. It was more than just laughs. 00:07:07.759 --> 00:07:10.720 It was building a comedic brand, a persona people 00:07:10.720 --> 00:07:14.000 connected with, that clever, often self -deprecating 00:07:14.000 --> 00:07:16.779 humor. Right. And just to underscore her versatility, 00:07:17.199 --> 00:07:20.620 she even hosted The Comedy Hour on 774 ABC Melbourne. 00:07:20.860 --> 00:07:23.220 Ah, yeah. Moving into hosting. Which is a totally 00:07:23.220 --> 00:07:25.519 different skill set, right? Steering a show, 00:07:25.720 --> 00:07:28.379 interviewing guests, managing segments. It showed 00:07:28.379 --> 00:07:31.060 her abilities as a broadcaster, a curator of 00:07:31.060 --> 00:07:33.740 comedy. Really broadened her appeal. Building 00:07:33.740 --> 00:07:35.819 on that versatile foundation then, her involvement 00:07:35.819 --> 00:07:39.579 in shows like Chopper's Fucking Bingo. Yes. It's 00:07:39.579 --> 00:07:41.620 a brilliant example of her collaborative genius. 00:07:41.680 --> 00:07:44.100 With Heath Franklin as Chopper. Exactly. From 00:07:44.100 --> 00:07:47.360 2006 to 2009, performing alongside him, he's 00:07:47.360 --> 00:07:49.620 this iconic, menacing, but hilarious character. 00:07:50.379 --> 00:07:53.279 And Felicity playing his ball girl. And notably, 00:07:54.060 --> 00:07:57.579 his drug addict niece Jenny. Jenny, yeah. That 00:07:57.579 --> 00:08:00.779 wasn't just a sidekick role. It demanded a very 00:08:00.779 --> 00:08:04.100 specific, refined, comedic muscle. How so? Well, 00:08:04.279 --> 00:08:06.040 that kind of partnership, you need to be incredibly 00:08:06.040 --> 00:08:09.379 present, support the main act, react authentically 00:08:09.379 --> 00:08:11.560 in character. And this is key, cleverly steel 00:08:11.560 --> 00:08:13.740 moments without overshadowing the main dynamic. 00:08:13.899 --> 00:08:17.339 Ah, OK. A delicate balance. Very delicate. Selfless 00:08:17.339 --> 00:08:20.160 support, but also astute timing. And that show 00:08:20.160 --> 00:08:23.180 was hugely successful. Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, 00:08:23.819 --> 00:08:25.660 even the Christmas special. Chopper's fucking 00:08:25.660 --> 00:08:28.240 Christmas bingo, yeah. That experience undoubtedly 00:08:28.240 --> 00:08:31.899 sharpened her dramatic and comedic chops. Playing 00:08:31.899 --> 00:08:34.860 a character like Jenny with that specific dynamic 00:08:34.860 --> 00:08:38.360 with Chopper required nuance. Mm -hmm. Character 00:08:38.360 --> 00:08:41.840 building, audience empathy. Exactly. It's foundational. 00:08:42.059 --> 00:08:44.879 It prepares you for solo work by refining reactive 00:08:44.879 --> 00:08:47.639 timing, stage presence, crafting characters within 00:08:47.639 --> 00:08:50.559 an existing world. It taught her how to be indispensable 00:08:50.559 --> 00:08:54.000 in a duo, but still stand out. Powerful lesson. 00:08:54.259 --> 00:08:56.299 And it seems like those collaborative efforts 00:08:56.299 --> 00:08:58.500 where she consistently shown really did pave 00:08:58.500 --> 00:09:00.580 the way for her move into the solo spotlight, 00:09:00.720 --> 00:09:03.940 which was. Quite bold. In 2008, she took that 00:09:03.940 --> 00:09:06.820 big leap, debuted her first full -length solo 00:09:06.820 --> 00:09:09.059 stand -up show at the Melbourne Fringe Festival. 00:09:09.139 --> 00:09:11.620 A major step. And the show, with that provocative 00:09:11.620 --> 00:09:14.639 title, Felicity Ward's Ugly as a Child Variety 00:09:14.639 --> 00:09:18.720 Show, it just landed with incredible force, announced 00:09:18.720 --> 00:09:21.639 her as a solo talent to watch. Immediate impact. 00:09:21.879 --> 00:09:24.100 Yeah. Popular acclaim, critical praise right 00:09:24.100 --> 00:09:26.539 away. And it culminated in her winning the Melbourne 00:09:26.539 --> 00:09:28.740 Airport Award for Best Newcomer. That's huge. 00:09:28.820 --> 00:09:31.250 Best Newcomer at Melbourne Fringe. It's a massive 00:09:31.250 --> 00:09:33.350 validation, isn't it? More than just a trophy. 00:09:33.610 --> 00:09:36.509 It's the critics, the industry saying, this artist 00:09:36.509 --> 00:09:39.809 has a unique voice, real potential. Absolutely. 00:09:40.009 --> 00:09:42.850 A major signal. So that show, it was her first 00:09:42.850 --> 00:09:45.899 big solo statement. proving she could command 00:09:45.899 --> 00:09:49.200 a stage entirely on her own terms, connect directly, 00:09:49.419 --> 00:09:52.159 profoundly with an audience. And the reception 00:09:52.159 --> 00:09:55.059 to Ugly as a Child variety show was, like you 00:09:55.059 --> 00:09:57.279 said, phenomenal. But what really solidifies 00:09:57.279 --> 00:09:59.799 its impact is how quickly that recognition went 00:09:59.799 --> 00:10:02.100 international. Right. It toured pretty extensively 00:10:02.100 --> 00:10:05.360 soon after. Yeah. 2009, Adelaide French, Melbourne 00:10:05.360 --> 00:10:08.440 International Comedy Festival, MICF, Sydney Comedy 00:10:08.440 --> 00:10:10.879 Festival, and crucially, the Edinburgh Festival 00:10:10.879 --> 00:10:14.139 French. The big one. The big one. Produced by 00:10:14.139 --> 00:10:16.639 Laughingstock Productions, it wasn't just a casual 00:10:16.639 --> 00:10:19.100 tour. It was a commercial and critical hit. Selling 00:10:19.100 --> 00:10:21.639 out shows everywhere it went. Selling out everywhere. 00:10:21.720 --> 00:10:24.179 That's a clear sign. Undeniable audience demand. 00:10:24.179 --> 00:10:26.960 Yeah. Shows a comedic voice with broad, universal 00:10:26.960 --> 00:10:30.340 appeal, connecting beyond just local humor. And 00:10:30.340 --> 00:10:33.419 the awards kept coming. Nominated for Best Newcomer 00:10:33.419 --> 00:10:37.840 at MICF 2009. Another big deal. And then winning 00:10:37.840 --> 00:10:40.259 Mervyn Stutter's Spirit of the Fringe Award at 00:10:40.259 --> 00:10:43.100 Edinburgh. Wow, Edinburgh too. Yeah, and you 00:10:43.100 --> 00:10:45.200 have to understand, Edinburgh Fringe is like 00:10:45.200 --> 00:10:48.059 the Olympics of comedy. Thousands of performers 00:10:48.059 --> 00:10:51.399 from everywhere, all vying for attention. Intense 00:10:51.399 --> 00:10:54.480 competition. Incredibly intense. Winning an award 00:10:54.480 --> 00:10:56.840 there isn't just local success, it's a global 00:10:56.840 --> 00:11:00.159 endorsement. It signals this profound resonance. 00:11:00.899 --> 00:11:03.419 catapults you onto the world stage. So it really 00:11:03.419 --> 00:11:05.879 solidified her status internationally. Absolutely. 00:11:06.100 --> 00:11:08.919 Not just a rising Aussie star, but a genuine 00:11:08.919 --> 00:11:11.919 international talent captivating diverse audiences. 00:11:12.100 --> 00:11:13.940 What's really remarkable then is after that huge 00:11:13.940 --> 00:11:16.080 debut, she didn't just, you know, stick to the 00:11:16.080 --> 00:11:18.179 winning formula. No, she started experimenting 00:11:18.179 --> 00:11:20.720 almost immediately. Right. She showed this drive 00:11:20.720 --> 00:11:24.120 to evolve her style. September 2009, Melbourne 00:11:24.120 --> 00:11:27.120 Fringe again. She unveils Felicity Ward Reads 00:11:27.120 --> 00:11:29.460 from The Book of Moron. Different kind of show. 00:11:29.860 --> 00:11:31.639 Totally. Not straightforward stand -up. It was 00:11:31.639 --> 00:11:34.279 this fascinating hybrid storytelling stand -up 00:11:34.279 --> 00:11:37.480 woven together with music. More complex. And 00:11:37.480 --> 00:11:40.639 she toured that innovative show in 2010 Adelaide 00:11:40.639 --> 00:11:43.500 Fringe Brisbane Comedy Festival back to MICF. 00:11:43.710 --> 00:11:47.230 taking risks. Yeah. That choice to diversify 00:11:47.230 --> 00:11:50.169 her style so early signals an artist who isn't 00:11:50.169 --> 00:11:53.169 just chasing applause, but actively pushing boundaries, 00:11:53.490 --> 00:11:55.769 exploring different ways to engage, blending 00:11:55.769 --> 00:11:58.389 elements to craft something unique, personal. 00:11:58.669 --> 00:12:00.789 And that creative experimentation kept yielding 00:12:00.789 --> 00:12:03.950 results, which leads to her 2011 show, Honestly, 00:12:04.669 --> 00:12:06.490 critically acclaimed. Right. Another big hit. 00:12:06.750 --> 00:12:09.009 Sellout crowds, cementing that reputation for 00:12:09.009 --> 00:12:12.950 sustained excellence. And Honestly. really racked 00:12:12.950 --> 00:12:15.529 up the awards. Best Local Act at the Time Out 00:12:15.529 --> 00:12:18.490 Sydney Comedy Festival Awards 2011. Significant 00:12:18.490 --> 00:12:21.769 accolade. Very. Named in the Sydney Morning Herald's 00:12:21.769 --> 00:12:24.210 Top 10 Comedy Shows for the year, stellar four 00:12:24.210 --> 00:12:26.370 -star reviews everywhere. Plus, she became the 00:12:26.370 --> 00:12:29.009 face of MICF that year. She did. Testament to 00:12:29.009 --> 00:12:30.950 her standing, her broad appeal in Australia, 00:12:31.330 --> 00:12:33.710 and her international reach kept expanding dramatically 00:12:33.710 --> 00:12:37.070 too. Where did Honestly tour? Hong Kong, Singapore, 00:12:37.269 --> 00:12:39.629 with the MICF Roadshow, New Zealand with the 00:12:39.629 --> 00:12:42.840 Comedy Convoy. captivating crowns. Wow, really 00:12:42.840 --> 00:12:45.600 covering ground. And even amidst all that, she 00:12:45.600 --> 00:12:48.740 still found time for another distinct show, Felicity 00:12:48.740 --> 00:12:51.639 Ward's week -long, ill -timed Christmas special 00:12:51.639 --> 00:12:56.120 back at Melbourne Fringe in late 2011. Relentless. 00:12:56.379 --> 00:12:58.659 It just cements that reputation, doesn't it? 00:12:58.899 --> 00:13:01.980 Relentless versatility, creative curiosity, tireless 00:13:01.980 --> 00:13:03.940 work ethic, constantly creating, performing, 00:13:04.200 --> 00:13:07.059 connecting. Definitely. This consistent success 00:13:07.059 --> 00:13:09.820 leads us right to her 2012 show, The Hedgehog 00:13:09.820 --> 00:13:12.210 Dilemma. Which wasn't just another successful 00:13:12.210 --> 00:13:14.509 show. It really proved her enduring quality. 00:13:14.830 --> 00:13:17.009 Her ability to consistently produce top -tier 00:13:17.009 --> 00:13:20.690 work year after year. The Hedgehog Dilemma. Interesting 00:13:20.690 --> 00:13:23.269 concept. Intimacy bringing connection but also 00:13:23.269 --> 00:13:25.889 pain like hedgehogs. Exactly. That idea. And 00:13:25.889 --> 00:13:28.769 it resonated deeply. Sellout Seasons again. Nominated 00:13:28.769 --> 00:13:31.190 for Best Comedy at Adelaide Fringe and MICF. 00:13:31.269 --> 00:13:34.090 More nominations. And wins too. Best Australian 00:13:34.090 --> 00:13:36.370 Act at both Sydney and Perth Comedy Festivals. 00:13:37.279 --> 00:13:39.179 Unequivocally, reinforcing her position is a 00:13:39.179 --> 00:13:41.340 major force in Australian comedy. Did Hedgehog 00:13:41.340 --> 00:13:43.879 go international, too? It did. Invited to Edinburgh 00:13:43.879 --> 00:13:46.399 Fringe, then a successful short run at the Soho 00:13:46.399 --> 00:13:48.740 Theatre in London. Soho Theatre, nice. And this 00:13:48.740 --> 00:13:51.600 continued international presence, plus performances 00:13:51.600 --> 00:13:55.360 at Latitude Festival in 14, 16, 19, and her 2018 00:13:55.360 --> 00:13:57.919 show Busting a Nut, getting nominated for Best 00:13:57.919 --> 00:14:00.220 Show at Edinburgh. Another Edinburgh nomination. 00:14:00.419 --> 00:14:02.759 It paints this picture, doesn't it? An artist 00:14:02.759 --> 00:14:05.220 who isn't fleeting. She's continually evolving, 00:14:05.559 --> 00:14:08.539 high level, constantly refining her craft, pushing 00:14:08.539 --> 00:14:11.460 themes, staying relevant globally, sustaining 00:14:11.460 --> 00:14:14.019 that engagement over years. Yeah, definitely 00:14:14.019 --> 00:14:16.879 not a one -hit wonder. Not at all. And this relentless 00:14:16.879 --> 00:14:19.279 pursuit, this innovation, and naturally set the 00:14:19.279 --> 00:14:21.909 stage for her to diversify even further. moving 00:14:21.909 --> 00:14:24.750 confidently beyond stand -up into film and TV 00:14:24.750 --> 00:14:27.669 roles. Yeah, that transition from stand -up to 00:14:27.669 --> 00:14:30.509 acting and film and TV, it's a fascinating chapter 00:14:30.509 --> 00:14:33.190 for any performer. Mm, different skill set. And 00:14:33.190 --> 00:14:35.309 for Felicity, it was really impactful. It showed 00:14:35.309 --> 00:14:38.149 that versatility extends beyond her own material, 00:14:38.529 --> 00:14:40.649 a different kind of performance discipline. Right, 00:14:40.809 --> 00:14:42.629 interpreting a script, working with a director. 00:14:42.789 --> 00:14:44.710 Exactly. In Toon the S .O., she had that well 00:14:44.710 --> 00:14:46.850 -received supporting role, Emily, in the Aussie 00:14:46.850 --> 00:14:49.870 comedy. Any questions for Ben? Working dog productions, 00:14:50.029 --> 00:14:52.299 yeah. No, first... Smart comedies. Good platform. 00:14:53.100 --> 00:14:56.059 Then 2014, she's Lizzie in The Inbetweeners 2, 00:14:56.240 --> 00:14:59.159 which was a massive hit globally. Huge audience 00:14:59.159 --> 00:15:01.320 for that one. And these roles, even supporting 00:15:01.320 --> 00:15:04.460 ones, were significant. Proof her acting chops 00:15:04.460 --> 00:15:07.580 in a different medium, adapting timing, character 00:15:07.580 --> 00:15:10.000 immersion to fit a director's vision, a script. 00:15:10.899 --> 00:15:14.059 Moving from direct address standup to collaborative 00:15:14.059 --> 00:15:16.860 scripted film. It's a testament to her ability 00:15:16.860 --> 00:15:20.590 to adapt, deliver nuanced performances. broadened 00:15:20.590 --> 00:15:22.970 her repertoire, introduced her to totally new 00:15:22.970 --> 00:15:25.090 audiences, maybe unfamiliar with her stand -up. 00:15:25.269 --> 00:15:27.590 It really is captivating, watching her adaptability 00:15:27.590 --> 00:15:30.429 across so many different media. Her TV roles, 00:15:30.649 --> 00:15:33.029 especially, showcase that range. Yeah, on the 00:15:33.029 --> 00:15:35.309 sketch work, yeah. Absolutely. She's been in 00:15:35.309 --> 00:15:38.029 such varied series, like the crime comedy Sleuth 00:15:38.029 --> 00:15:41.029 101, the quirky ensemble The Librarians, the 00:15:41.029 --> 00:15:43.750 dark comedy Laid. Diverse roles. And her comedic 00:15:43.750 --> 00:15:46.230 timing shown in shows like Josh and Ronnie Ching, 00:15:46.909 --> 00:15:48.899 International Student. Holding your own with 00:15:48.899 --> 00:15:51.039 other sharp talents. But not just comedy, right? 00:15:51.320 --> 00:15:53.919 No. Exactly. She showed nuanced capacity for 00:15:53.919 --> 00:15:56.700 more dramatic or layered roles, too. Critically 00:15:56.700 --> 00:15:59.360 acclaimed series like The Letdown, Game Face, 00:15:59.539 --> 00:16:01.840 Late Night Mash, the intense drama Wakefield. 00:16:02.240 --> 00:16:05.059 Wow. Even The Mind of Herbert Clunkerdunk. Wow. 00:16:05.240 --> 00:16:06.519 Quite the legs. These aren't just one -offs. 00:16:06.799 --> 00:16:09.399 It shows this consistent ability to embody different 00:16:09.399 --> 00:16:12.440 characters, adapted tones, contribute effectively 00:16:12.440 --> 00:16:14.940 to ensembles. And those UK guest spots, too. 00:16:14.980 --> 00:16:17.779 Yeah. High profile spots as herself. Roast Battle 00:16:17.779 --> 00:16:20.970 on Comedy Central in 2019. Fiery. Definitely. 00:16:21.470 --> 00:16:23.529 And Richard Osmond's House of Games on the BBC 00:16:23.529 --> 00:16:27.730 in 2023, that signals growing recognition, appeal 00:16:27.730 --> 00:16:30.690 in a very competitive international market. Requires 00:16:30.690 --> 00:16:33.009 quick wit in those panel settings. Absolutely. 00:16:33.190 --> 00:16:34.990 Underscores her broad skill set, her ability 00:16:34.990 --> 00:16:37.529 to connect in various formats. It's a strategic, 00:16:37.649 --> 00:16:40.129 organic expansion of her career. And building 00:16:40.129 --> 00:16:42.750 on that versatility... Her acting career hits 00:16:42.750 --> 00:16:45.389 this really significant milestone now with her 00:16:45.389 --> 00:16:47.809 lead role as Hannah Howard in The Office, the 00:16:47.809 --> 00:16:51.129 new Australian version. Ah yes, huge news. Starting 00:16:51.129 --> 00:16:53.750 in 2024, this isn't just a guest spot, it's a 00:16:53.750 --> 00:16:56.649 central main role across eight episodes, right 00:16:56.649 --> 00:16:59.149 at the forefront of a major production. That's 00:16:59.149 --> 00:17:01.330 a massive testament to her acting prowess, her 00:17:01.330 --> 00:17:04.349 appeal, being entrusted with a pivotal role in 00:17:04.349 --> 00:17:07.089 a franchise known globally. Huge legacy, built 00:17:07.089 --> 00:17:09.940 -in audience. It's a new level of recognition 00:17:09.940 --> 00:17:12.440 for her as an actress. Demands sustained performance, 00:17:12.720 --> 00:17:14.900 deep character work. Definitely. And beyond the 00:17:14.900 --> 00:17:16.819 screen, she's also expanded into audio, right? 00:17:16.980 --> 00:17:19.309 Guest hosting on the bugle. the satirical comedy 00:17:19.309 --> 00:17:22.529 podcast. Huge international following. It showcases 00:17:22.529 --> 00:17:25.349 another facet, sharp comedic commentary, insightful 00:17:25.349 --> 00:17:27.930 intelligence in a totally different medium. So 00:17:27.930 --> 00:17:31.170 this multifaceted approach, balancing lead TV 00:17:31.170 --> 00:17:35.069 roles, ongoing standup podcasts, it really demonstrates 00:17:35.069 --> 00:17:37.630 that remarkable versatility, strategic career 00:17:37.630 --> 00:17:39.730 building, and just expansive reach. It really 00:17:39.730 --> 00:17:42.369 does. And this successful diversification across 00:17:42.369 --> 00:17:45.130 so many forms raises that profound question, 00:17:45.170 --> 00:17:47.630 doesn't it? What enables an artist to transition 00:17:47.470 --> 00:17:51.250 so adeptly, from sketch to personal standup to 00:17:51.250 --> 00:17:55.450 film acting, lead TV roles, podcasts, it's clearly 00:17:55.450 --> 00:17:58.190 more than just raw talent. It speaks to this 00:17:58.190 --> 00:18:00.890 deep adaptability, a willingness to constantly 00:18:00.890 --> 00:18:03.589 evolve her craft, and crucially, an inherent 00:18:03.589 --> 00:18:06.109 authenticity that just resonates, regardless 00:18:06.109 --> 00:18:08.640 of the medium. Yeah, that authenticity seems 00:18:08.640 --> 00:18:12.440 key. Her ability to embody characters, deliver 00:18:12.440 --> 00:18:16.259 sharp punchlines and nuanced drama, engage audiences 00:18:16.259 --> 00:18:20.079 across platforms, it points to this broad integrated 00:18:20.079 --> 00:18:22.980 skill set. She doesn't just perform, she transforms 00:18:22.980 --> 00:18:25.519 and connects. That's why her appeal is so wide 00:18:25.519 --> 00:18:28.480 ranging, so enduring. And that professional versatility 00:18:28.480 --> 00:18:31.819 seems intrinsically matched by her personal openness, 00:18:32.059 --> 00:18:35.180 her advocacy, adds another rich layer. Absolutely. 00:18:35.500 --> 00:18:37.380 And speaking of her personal life, the grounding 00:18:37.380 --> 00:18:39.240 elements, it's worth mentioning her marriage 00:18:39.240 --> 00:18:43.099 to Crisava. Often private, but it represents 00:18:43.099 --> 00:18:45.880 that personal milestone, maybe a stable foundation 00:18:45.880 --> 00:18:48.660 amidst such a dynamic career. Which must be important 00:18:48.660 --> 00:18:50.960 with all the travel and demands. Exactly. Offers 00:18:50.960 --> 00:18:54.019 respite, support, maybe even inspiration. A reminder 00:18:54.019 --> 00:18:56.180 that these outward careers are supported by an 00:18:56.170 --> 00:18:58.730 in her world. And when we connect that personal 00:18:58.730 --> 00:19:01.490 thread to the bigger picture, Felicity Ward's 00:19:01.490 --> 00:19:04.170 willingness to speak so openly about mental health, 00:19:04.349 --> 00:19:08.630 it transforms personal experience into powerful 00:19:08.630 --> 00:19:10.890 public advocacy. She's been very vocal about 00:19:10.890 --> 00:19:14.400 anxiety. Commendably so. an active, passionate 00:19:14.400 --> 00:19:16.880 advocate for mental health awareness in Australia. 00:19:17.400 --> 00:19:20.019 And it wasn't just statements. She delved deep 00:19:20.019 --> 00:19:22.720 into anxiety, depression, insomnia in her BBC 00:19:22.720 --> 00:19:25.880 Radio 4 series episodes. Right, using her platform 00:19:25.880 --> 00:19:28.900 for that. And that level of transparency, candid 00:19:28.900 --> 00:19:32.359 sharing, it's invaluable. It normalizes discussions 00:19:32.359 --> 00:19:35.680 around often stigmatized issues, offers comfort, 00:19:35.839 --> 00:19:38.220 validation, understanding to so many people maybe 00:19:38.220 --> 00:19:41.019 facing similar challenges silently. And that 00:19:41.019 --> 00:19:44.000 honesty, it's not... advocacy, it deeply informs 00:19:44.000 --> 00:19:47.420 her comedy, adds layers of poignant depth, universal 00:19:47.420 --> 00:19:50.289 relatability often Bittersweet truth. Makes the 00:19:50.289 --> 00:19:53.390 connection stronger. Exactly. By sharing vulnerability, 00:19:53.509 --> 00:19:56.210 she creates the stronger, more empathetic bond, 00:19:56.549 --> 00:19:58.349 proving that true connection often comes from 00:19:58.349 --> 00:20:00.309 sharing our authentic selves, even the difficult 00:20:00.309 --> 00:20:03.069 parts. It's empathy disguised as entertainment. 00:20:03.369 --> 00:20:05.450 And digging even deeper into that vulnerability, 00:20:05.890 --> 00:20:07.549 her talking about Irritable Battle Syndrome, 00:20:07.710 --> 00:20:10.970 IBS, incorporating it into her 2015 show, What 00:20:10.970 --> 00:20:13.670 If There's No Toilet? Just the title alone. Right. 00:20:13.869 --> 00:20:16.849 It immediately signals this brave, vulnerable, 00:20:17.190 --> 00:20:20.049 deeply personal comedy. It takes immense courage, 00:20:20.289 --> 00:20:22.970 artistic conviction to take something so private, 00:20:23.210 --> 00:20:26.549 often taboo, challenging, and turn it into material 00:20:26.549 --> 00:20:29.009 that connects, entertains, and makes people feel 00:20:29.009 --> 00:20:31.750 seen, understood. Finds the shared humanity in 00:20:31.750 --> 00:20:34.450 discomfort. Absolutely. Takes an experience many 00:20:34.450 --> 00:20:37.450 find embarrassing, strips away the stigma, crafts 00:20:37.450 --> 00:20:40.009 it into something relatable, finding humor. It's 00:20:40.009 --> 00:20:43.450 not just brave. It's generous, authentic. down 00:20:43.450 --> 00:20:45.950 barriers reminding us struggles can become sources 00:20:45.950 --> 00:20:48.710 of connection, laughter. A masterclass in turning 00:20:48.710 --> 00:20:51.190 challenge into empathy. Totally. At her journey 00:20:51.190 --> 00:20:54.369 of self -discovery, it continues to unfold publicly, 00:20:54.930 --> 00:20:56.890 honestly. Raising that important question about 00:20:56.890 --> 00:20:59.730 identity being lifelong, not concluding at a 00:20:59.730 --> 00:21:01.670 certain age. You mean her describing herself 00:21:01.670 --> 00:21:05.369 as elite bisexual? Exactly. Recognizing same 00:21:05.369 --> 00:21:08.539 -sex attraction in her 40s. Her candidness about 00:21:08.539 --> 00:21:11.299 this personal aspect, it enriches her authentic 00:21:11.299 --> 00:21:13.859 persona, adds another layer of representation, 00:21:14.539 --> 00:21:16.940 relatability. Challenges assumptions. Powerfully. 00:21:17.539 --> 00:21:20.480 In a society that often assumes identity, especially 00:21:20.480 --> 00:21:24.079 sexual orientation, is fixed early on, her openness 00:21:24.079 --> 00:21:26.480 challenges that. Shows self -understanding can 00:21:26.480 --> 00:21:29.160 evolve, deepen over time, regardless of age. 00:21:29.759 --> 00:21:32.619 And this kind of revelation contributes significantly 00:21:32.619 --> 00:21:35.339 to her unique voice, deepens that connection 00:21:35.339 --> 00:21:37.759 with her audience. especially those who might 00:21:37.759 --> 00:21:40.259 relate to similar experiences of evolving identity 00:21:40.259 --> 00:21:42.680 later in life. Right. Another example of using 00:21:42.680 --> 00:21:45.500 her platform for understanding. Genuine connection. 00:21:46.299 --> 00:21:48.099 Representation through sharing her own evolving 00:21:48.099 --> 00:21:51.599 humanity as richness and ever -expanding perspective 00:21:51.599 --> 00:21:54.039 to her art. So as we bring this deep dive towards 00:21:54.039 --> 00:21:57.000 a close, what are the profound takeaways from 00:21:57.000 --> 00:21:59.960 Felicity Ward's extraordinary world? We've traced 00:21:59.960 --> 00:22:02.200 this remarkable path, haven't we? From quiet 00:22:02.200 --> 00:22:05.180 pill care, through explosive sketch comedy, global 00:22:05.180 --> 00:22:08.279 standup recognition, accomplished acting, fearless 00:22:08.279 --> 00:22:10.940 advocacy. Quite a journey. We've seen her constantly 00:22:10.940 --> 00:22:13.940 push boundaries, evolve from hybrid standup to 00:22:13.940 --> 00:22:16.720 leading a major global TV show, always bringing 00:22:16.720 --> 00:22:20.160 that distinct blend of sharp wit, incisive observation, 00:22:20.380 --> 00:22:22.980 and disarming honesty. and connecting all those 00:22:22.980 --> 00:22:25.660 threads, looking at the bigger picture. Her career 00:22:25.660 --> 00:22:29.599 is just this truly powerful example of how vulnerability 00:22:29.599 --> 00:22:33.539 and unwavering authenticity can profoundly amplify 00:22:33.539 --> 00:22:35.720 artistic impact. She doesn't just entertain, 00:22:35.880 --> 00:22:38.960 she connects, educates, inspires through that 00:22:38.960 --> 00:22:41.460 honesty and masterful craft. Her willingness 00:22:41.460 --> 00:22:43.920 to share not just brilliant comedy, but also 00:22:43.920 --> 00:22:47.940 personal struggles, anxiety, IBS, self -discovery 00:22:47.940 --> 00:22:50.859 creates this unusually strong empathetic bond. 00:22:51.480 --> 00:22:54.319 find strength in openness. Exactly. Powerfully 00:22:54.319 --> 00:22:56.579 demonstrating that genuine connection, lasting 00:22:56.579 --> 00:22:59.880 resonance, stem from revealing our full complex, 00:23:00.180 --> 00:23:02.640 often beautifully unvarnished selves. Which leaves 00:23:02.640 --> 00:23:04.940 us, and you the listener, with this important, 00:23:05.140 --> 00:23:06.700 kind of thought -provoking question, doesn't 00:23:06.700 --> 00:23:09.819 it? In an era that's so often dominated by curated 00:23:09.819 --> 00:23:13.279 images, perfect public personas, What profound 00:23:13.279 --> 00:23:15.480 lessons can we take from an artist like Felicity 00:23:15.480 --> 00:23:18.700 Ward? She consistently brings her full, unvarnished 00:23:18.700 --> 00:23:21.759 self to her work, invites us to find humor, humanity, 00:23:22.019 --> 00:23:24.059 connection in every facet of life, the awkward, 00:23:24.180 --> 00:23:26.180 the challenging, the joyous. So how can her example 00:23:26.180 --> 00:23:29.380 inspire us? Exactly. How can it inspire us to 00:23:29.380 --> 00:23:32.359 embrace our own authentic expressions, to find 00:23:32.359 --> 00:23:34.519 the courage to share our true selves, maybe in 00:23:34.519 --> 00:23:36.619 our work or creative lives or just our everyday 00:23:36.619 --> 00:23:37.980 interactions? Something to think about.