At Perth Fringe World, where creativity and talent collide, Eyes Up Here is stealing the spotlight as the comedy show redefining age and convention. Featuring the incomparable Nola Bliss, the effervescent Brenda McAuliffe, and a rotating roster of surprise comediennes, this Fringe Festival gem is a celebration of resilience, reinvention, and razor-sharp wit.
The Powerhouses Behind the Punchlines
At 76, Nola Bliss is a revelation. With a life story that includes four husbands, three children, two grandchildren, and the ownership of a hotel, Nola’s comedy draws from a well of rich experience and unfiltered truths. Her no-holds-barred style is equal parts charming and provocative, proving that laughter—and life—truly gets better with age.
“I’ve been told to stay quiet for too long,” Nola says with a sly grin. “Now, I’ve got a mic, and they’re going to hear me whether they like it or not!”
Joining her on stage is Brenda McAuliffe, a comedy dynamo who has spent her life juggling pet photography, business ownership, and a stint as a ‘god-botherer.’ Her material oscillates between divine interventions and chaotic doggy photo shoots, creating a blend of stand-up that is as heartfelt as it is hilarious.
“Comedy is a lot like photographing pets,” Brenda laughs. “You need patience, quick reflexes, and a willingness to clean up a mess if it happens!”
A Surprise Every Night
As if Nola and Brenda weren’t enough to fill a stage with brilliance, every performance of Eyes Up Here features a surprise guest comedienne. The mystery adds an extra layer of excitement—who knows which comedy star might drop in to steal the spotlight?
Grassroots Comedy: The Perfect Partner
Brought to you by Grassroots Comedy, Australia’s largest comedy network, Eyes Up Here showcases talent and stories that deserve the spotlight. Under the direction of managing director and veteran comedian Xavier Susai, Grassroots Comedy has built a reputation for delivering world-class productions.
“Grassroots Comedy is about amplifying voices that too often go unheard,” says Susai. “With Nola, Brenda, and their phenomenal guests, we’re bringing audiences not just laughs, but unforgettable stories and perspectives.”
An Exclusive Interview
We caught up with Nola and Brenda for a few quick questions:
Q: Nola, at 76, what inspired you to step into comedy?
A: “I figured if I can handle husbands and hotel guests, I can handle a crowd! Plus, I’ve got stories that would make sailors blush—it’s time the world heard them.”
Q: Brenda, how does your past as a pet photographer shape your comedy?
A: “Dogs and people aren’t that different—both are unpredictable, both will misbehave if you don’t pay attention, and both will bring you joy if you let them.”
Q: What can audiences expect from Eyes Up Here?
Brenda: “Laughter that feels like an inside joke with your best friends.”
Nola: “And maybe a few lessons in how to live fearlessly.”
Why You Can’t Miss This Show
With its mix of life lessons, gut-busting humour, and unexpected twists, Eyes Up Here is more than a comedy show—it’s a celebration of bold, brilliant women who refuse to be silenced. As part of the stellar lineup at Perth Fringe World, it’s an unmissable experience for Fringe Festival fans.
Where: Guildford Hotel, Ronnie Nights
Tickets on Sale Now
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