Three minutes with David Strassman

David Strassman with Ted E Bare.

Popular ventriloquist David Strassman is returning to Brisbane for a brand new show which he says will be Ted E Bare's last outing. Tickets are on sale now for the shows which start from November 30. For tickets visit www.qpac.com.au or call 136 246.

Q: So why is Ted E Bare really saying goodbye?

A: Well he can't stand all the stress of showbiz. So the show is going to be an exploration of the reasons why we're not happy in our own lives. This show is completely 100 per cent brand new.

Q: Have you witnessed any fan outrage that Ted E might be leaving?

A: No, everyone just wants to come and see what happens. There's going to be a ‘you've got talent' audition to try and replace him. But will he really go?....Well let's just say it's kind of like a John Farnham farewell concert.

Q: What has been your favourite memory with Ted E?

A: His leg falling off during a show in Geelong, Victoria. It fell off in the middle of the performance and it brought down the house, it was amazing. He is the every man, everyone can relate to Ted E. You guys in Australia love your teddy bears.

Q: Are your surprised with how well your shows go in Australia?

A: Well not really, I have a formula I stick to. I'm not greedy, so I only go do a show in a city every two to three years, and the show is completely brand new. I also bring a huge production, it's not just a guy with a puppet and a microphone.

Q: Why did you become a ventriloquist?

A: I never, never wanted to be a ventriloquist. I was an actor who started busking on the street and it was a function of money over the years.

Q: Would you like to see a revival of ventriloquists? Do you see many young people taking it up?

A: One comedian who is doing ventriloquism is Nina Conti - she is brilliant and one of the few who is taking this art form and making it different. I'd love people to follow in my footsteps but there's nothing worse than an unfunny ventriloquist.

Q: What's one fictional character you wish you had come up with yourself?

A: A wife. That would be great to have a wife puppet. I'm not married.

Q: Who makes you laugh?

A: I really like Greg Fleet, he's a dark, twisted Melbourne comedian. And Tim Minchin I like the weird stuff.