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.
With a diary full of inspiration (and sheep poo), Johann has arrived in Naarm to launch (or attempt to launch) his first poetry book. Unfortunately, the presentation is sidetracked by his hatred of society, his love for Elton John, and his ongoing frustration with capitalism. Will we ever hear the full book? Do we want to?
Developed over several years across theatre, stand-up comedy and immersive performance, Johann first appeared in Barrett’s award-winning solo work at New Zealand Fringe. Since then he has evolved into a fully realised comic antihero delivering unsolicited life advice, terrible poetry and increasingly grandiose declarations of artistic importance.
The strictly limited season at The Motley Bauhaus will feature open-captioned performances, increasing accessibility for d/Deaf and hard of hearing audiences.
Directed by award winning comedian, storyteller, actor, and writer, Sameena Zehra, this is for the poetry lovers, poetry haters, or for those who simply enjoy watching a man ruminate and spiral in public, Ode To A Grape delivers a gloriously chaotic performance of clowning, character comedy and artistic catastrophe.
Join Johann for an unforgettable literary event that will change the course of history (or so he thinks).
September 28 – October 3
The Motley Bauhaus
