Young Blood back

By Kath Gannaway
GLADYSDALE comedian Michael Connell is staging the biggest comedy tour to visit the Yarra Ranges.
The Young Blood Tour 2 includes some of Australia’s best comedians as well as up-and-coming locals, at shows at Healesville, Warburton, Mooroolbark, and Upwey.
“The Young Blood tour in 2007 was so successful; we thought it was crying out for a sequel,” said Michael.
“Now we will be bringing back some local favourites as well as introducing some new characters.”
Performers include Charlie Pickering, Sue-Ann Post, Christine Basil, Dave Thornton, Matt Elsbury, Fox Klein, Justin Kennedy, and Danny McGinlay.
Michael said he had support from the Shire of Yarra Ranges, Youth Foundations Victoria, and the Yarra Valley Arts Council.
He said the Yarra Ranges was starting to build a local comedy scene.
For Michael, The Young Blood Tour 2 will follow on from performances at the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
“I’ll finish my Fringe Festival show and then it’s straight into the tour,” he said. “I’m looking at about a month without sleep. It will be pretty gruelling, but this is a big opportunity that I want to make the most of. I grew up in Gladysdale and I always wished there was more stand-up comedy locally. With this grant, I’ll be able to give local audiences a chance to see some of Australia’s best comedians as well as give local comedians a chance to perform to home crowds. That’s something worth being exhausted for.”
The Young Blood Tour 2 will be at Burrinja Galley on 23 October, Healesville Memorial Hall on 24 October, Mooroolbark Community Centre on 25 October, and Upper Yarra Arts Centre on 26 October.
Tickets are $16 or $14 concession. To book phone 5966 5040 or visit www.michaelconnell.com.au