Prepare to be simultaneously charmed and berated by self proclaimed artist,
incompetent anarchist, and lover of grapes. Award-winning clown and character comedian, Em Barrett will debut
her cult comedy creation, Johann in Ode To A Grape at Melbourne Fringe 2026. An absurd exploration of artistic
ambition, creative failure and the increasingly desperate search for meaning in late-stage capitalism.
How would you describe your show to someone who knows very little about it?
A misfit artist. A passion for grapes. And a hilarious attempt to merge the two.
What makes it stand out and why should people see it?
It’s a collision of three worlds: Stand up, poetry, and drag. And it has a compelling (albeit absurd) story that many people will relate to. How does art exist in the world today? Johann is the living contradiction of art under capitalism.
How long was the process from idea to writing to stage? Any challenges along the way?
Johann began all the way back in 2020! He was a character in my graduation showcase at drama school. This inspired me to go onto work with Sameena Zehra and together we developed ‘Community,’ Johann’s parent show. As part of development I took Johann out into the stand-up comedy world to test material, and have kept going ever since. Community won the ‘Tour Ready Award’ in NZ Fringe in 2021. Fast forwarding to now, I think the biggest challenge for me has been maintaining momentum. I’ve been wanting to make Johann’s solo show for years but in a very ADHD fashion (I’m neurodivergent), I was sidetracked by other projects, and the general obstacles of life. I think though this has been good in giving me a lot of time to consider the show and what I want from it. Now that it’s finally happening it feels super rewarding.
What attracts you to fringe?
Anything is possible! You could see a show in a takeaway shop, a bath house, or even a supermarket! I love being part of a rich culture of experimentation and fearless art. Fringe is a wonderful place for emerging artists.
How would you describe your relationship with the audience and what do you love the most about live performance?
I love my audiences. It’s so fun to pull them into the world of my characters, and make them as much a part of the show as I am. Live performing is at its core all about connection, and that’s why I do it.
Who would you say have been your biggest inspirations?
Honestly my director, Sameena. She has always challenged me to think differently about the work I make, and she’s the reason I started comedy!
What are three things that would surprise people to learn about you?
Hmmm there’s many things, but if I had to choose three:
I used to live off grid
I love getting into the ocean
And I make jewellery out of figurines
What do you love most about performing at Melbourne Fringe?
This will be my first time in the Melbourne Fringe, but I am really looking forward to meeting new artists, making connections, and getting inspired.
What comes after the Fringe Festival for you?
A lot of sleep, and then hopefully onto MICF!
Join Johann for an unforgettable literary event that will change the course of history (or so he thinks).
September 28 – October 3
melbournefringefestival.com.au
