Events Around Town: Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Arthur Yim

Fresh from his fight with testicular cancer, Melbourne's own lawyer-turned-comedian Michael Shafar returns to the spotlight for the 2022 Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Opening night was a raging success. Attended by members of YURO, as well as urology staff from Peter Mac and Alfred hospitals, every seat was filled in the packed Campari House. As a professional comedian and cancer-survivor, Michael put on a stellar performance, convincing his Peter Mac oncologist that he was "worth the chemo".

Many pearls of wisdom were shared, ranging from useful mnemonics for the upcoming federal election, to tips on achieving ironically viral anti-vaxxer TikTok stardom. There was barely a moment that was not filled with laughter - with a notable mention to the lady sitting in the front row with perhaps the most iconic high-pitched laughter Melbourne has ever heard. Credit goes to Michael though, who was able to keep a diverse crowd in stitches.

The evening concluded with drinks and snacks at the rooftop bar. Old and new colleagues from different health services were able to reconnect face-to-face. For many, it was the first show they'd seen since pandemic restrictions lifted and the excitement was palpable. It was a celebration not only of Michael's remarkable recovery and professional success, but also a warm welcome to the return of normality.

Michael's show "The Return of the Shafar" will continue every night until the end of the Comedy Festival on April 24, 2022. Get them online now!