Mark Trevorrow is footloose and fancy-free. He's been travelling the world, writing and performing.

The performer, best known for his alter ego Bob Downe, has lost a fixed address and gained a life.

He may be more mature than most couch surfers but that's exactly how he's been living for the past 18 months since selling his apartment in Potts Point.

The Sun-Herald catches up with him at his Sydney pied-a-terre, a two-bedroom apartment in the eastern suburbs owned by some old friends who have shaken off the city life for the quieter pace of the Blue Mountains.

Opening the door, Trevorrow is full of apologies. He's sorry it took him so long to answer (he was on the phone to a telemarketer), he's contrite about the mess (he's been away and hasn't had an opportune moment to clear the cobwebs) and he's concerned about the state of the ceiling (a leak has sprung after recent heavy rain).

But, really, it's the perfect crash pad for a man on the move. The loggia balcony opens to a small sitting room, where Trevorrow's computer dominates the dining table. His dog-eared passport and a copy of the Sydney Star Observer, with a picture of Bob Downe on the cover, sit close by.

All the furniture belongs to his benevolent landlords, though Trevorrow has a few of his own treasures in situ, including a Murano lamp, some artwork by friends in San Francisco and a piece of politically incorrect Australian kitsch depicting an indigenous man with native animals. All his other possessions - including Bob's wigs and stage clothes - are either in suitcases or storage in Rosebery.

Trevorrow concedes that couch surfing is not for everyone but he is happy to ride the wave.

"I was sick of being a mortgage slave," he says. "I genuinely felt trapped. It was really cramping my creative style. It really was. I was making my work decisions based on keeping thousands and thousands of bucks coming in to cover the mortgage and pay strata levies.

"I had an epiphany. I turned my back on the great Australian Dream of home ownership and it's the best thing I have ever done."

Since offloading the Potts Point pad in 2010, he's enjoyed a burst of creativity, touring with his show World War Bob last year and he's now on the road with his latest effort, 20 Golden Greats, which opens in Sydney on May 23 after a sold-out run in Melbourne.

"I've been of no fixed address ever since and I don't think it's a coincidence that I have been doing some of the best work I have ever done in my life," he says.

After his Sydney shows he will travel to London for a five-week stint at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern followed by shows at the Edinburgh Festival, the 16th time he has performed there.

The debt-free life has also improved his physical and mental health. Gym-fit in shorts and a dark polo shirt, Trevorrow looks much younger than his 53 years.

"I'm looking great - it's called not having a mortgage, I'm telling you," he says.

"The only thing in my life that has ever kept me lying awake at night is money - worrying about mortgages and debts and strata levies."

Given his itinerant lifestyle and the fact the apartment doesn't belong to him, Trevorrow does have one concern - that we don't reveal its exact location. A decade ago, he was featured in a story in Sunday Life that identified his then-home in Melbourne's Fitzroy. The place was burgled the day after the story was published and Trevorrow is keen not to go through that experience again.

"Just say it's in Sydney's east, would you darl?" he asks.

The prospect of thieves making off with Bob's lurid polyester suits and helmet-hair blond wigs is not one to be entertained lightly, so it seems like a fair-enough request.

Taking a seat on the balcony, he warms to his theme about the migratory lifestyle.

"Have you heard about this new breed of young people called digital nomads?" he asks.

"They don't live anywhere. They just move around with their computers. They're completely plugged in and they do all their work on their computer. It doesn't matter where they are. They stay on couches, they stay with friends and they travel the world. It's a new thing. And it's kinda me."

Have wi-fi, will travel, then? "Yes, absolutely," he nods.

But can he see himself, laptop in one hand, smartphone in the other, couch surfing into his retirement?

"I imagine when I decide where I want to settle down and base myself, I will get a proper fixed address but I can't see myself buying a place again," he says. "I don't trust the property market.

"To me, property values in Sydney and Melbourne seem so grossly out of proportion; there is only one way they can go. I don't trust it any more. I certainly don't trust the banks and I certainly don't believe in mortgages."

Trevorrow is still yet to resolve the question of what to do with his accumulated collection of 1950s furniture ("I love the mid-century look"), which is sitting in storage.

"What am I going to do with all that stuff? It's a millstone. I don't know what the bloody hell I'm going to do with it all," he says.

"I'm hoping that a giant fire breaks out at the storage unit so I'll be relieved of all that crap that's sitting there costing me a couple of hundred bucks a month. That would be my ideal scenario."

Born and raised in Melbourne, he's now a citizen of the world, racking up the frequent-flyer points as he divides his time between Sydney, London and San Francisco.

"I love the bohemian spirit in San Francisco, the hippie thing has never died there," he says.

"It attracts this amazing mix of people: queer; bohemian; creative. It's a magical place, a very enlightened place. I feel ready for a new adventure there."

Trevorrow has performed as Bob Downe in San Francisco, New York and Las Vegas to warm receptions. Bob's all-singing, all-dancing cabaret show translates well internationally.

"Bob's a clown," he says. "A good clown works everywhere.

"That said, I'm always astounded at how well he does in the States because you'd think it would be like taking coals to Newcastle.

"I think the Americans like the Australian perspective on it. It's strange and weird and wacky and wonderful, and the audience goes mad. They love it."

Bob Downe, the host of the fictional daytime TV show Good Morning Murwillumbah, was conceived in 1984 following Trevorrow's stint with the cabaret group the Globos, which had a couple of hits in the early '80s with Tintarella di Luna and The Beat Goes On.

Trevorrow formed the group after originally starting his working life as a newspaper journalist ("there's a lot of journalism in comedy"). Comedian Jane Turner was one of his collaborators in the Globos and he has been friends with Gina Riley since meeting her at Wendy Harmer's 25th birthday party in Melbourne in 1980.

Riley and Turner have cast him in their Kath & Kim feature film, Kath & Kimderella, to be released later this year. He hopes to return for the premiere.

"I want to be back in Australia to stroll the red carpet for that one," he says. "I'm really funny in it, if I don't say so myself."

20 Golden Greats runs at the Sydney Theatre, May 23-26.
Rachel Browne

It's been a busy time for Bob — his alter ego Mark Trevorrow even got to hang with Our Kylie while on presenting duties for this year's Mardi Gras Parade.

Downe will play 20 Golden Greats at the Sydney Theatre for five shows only, May 23 – 26. After some years working in productions with bands and dancers, the show features Murwillumbah's own beige boy all on his Pat Malone.

The Star Observer caught up with Bob to find out what audiences could expect from these five shows of colourful campery.

Bob, you're all about the glitz and glamour of a big show, so why the decision to just keep it to you on stage for 20 Golden Greats?

Because darling, I suddenly realised the something — I am the show! Complete with built-in glitz and glamour. My GLOBOS [cabaret group] co-founder Wendy de Waal said to me recently, “They're fine with dancers and support acts and co-stars and bands, but really, they're there to see you”. And I'm afraid I had to agree with her, so I've left the group and gone solo.

We're guessing the 20 Golden Greats of the show's title are all from a certain era.

They're all classic hits from the '50s, '60s, '70s, '80s and '90s. You'll come in humming the tunes, I promise! I'm a one-man 2WS. It's a sing-along, clap-along party every night.

Tell us about the trivia aspect of the night. It sounds like you're planning on turning the prestigious Sydney Theatre into a pub quiz! Can we expect meat trays for winners?

There will indeed be the odd trivia question about some of the songs. It's my way of making sure everyone stays awake. And the prizes are something much rarer and more precious than a meat tray — a Bob CD! Just try to find one of those in a shop — I've looked.

Are you nervous about opening yourself up to audience participation with the trivia part of the show? Do you have a contingency plan for hecklers and rowdy sorts?

Darling, just let 'em try and outsmart old Uncle Bob. I adore diving in to the auditorium. That's why I added the trivia element. You think I'm scared? As Eartha Kitt used to sing, “I've seen 'em all, and my dear, I'm still here”. Or was it Lorrae Desmond?

Is there anything audience members should be doing to study up before the shows, if they want to win a prize?

Yep. Get into a Tardis for a week and do nothing but watch Donnie Sutherland's Sounds, Countdown, and listen to 2UW and 2SM.

Your close personal friend Mark Trevorrow was last spotted hosting the Mardi Gras parade. Were you jealous you didn't get to see Kylie? And why on earth didn't we see YOU at the Parade?

I had a year off for good behaviour, apart from my Retro Gras cabaret show and hosting at Fair Day. And when I saw what the weather was doing, I gave the Parade webcast gig to Mark. He was as dreadful as ever so I guess it'll be back to me next year. And I was very jelly beans about Kylie, I'll admit. What a perfect little doll she is.

INFO: Bob Downe, 20 Golden Greats, Sydney Theatre, May 23 – 26. Tickets through Ticketmaster and http://www.sydneytheatre.org.au/

It's very apparent as he shimmies and swirls his way across the stage, swooning and crooning to a wide variety of classic hits that this man is as smooth and polished as a Ken doll crotch. 20 Golden Greats is an opportunity to showcase Bob Downe in his element, singing his way through classic songs and defining himself as one of Australia's great performance characters. After ending a song on a drawn-out, high pitched note and drumming up audience applause to fever pitch, Downe declares “is there no beginning to my talent”. The audience laps it up and responds voraciously to every raised eyebrow, flamboyant hair flick and cheeky innuendo that's offered. Trevorrow clearly knows his crowd tailoring jokes to home sewers and gently jibing the men in the room for being dragged along by their better half. It's true – a middle aged lady with her gal pal from book club would probably enjoy this more than a 24 year old male beat reviewer with his man friend. In saying that, everyone could do with a good dose of leg o' mutton sleeves, sequins and kitsch sing-a-longs once in a while and not many people can deliver the goods like Bob Downe.

Looking like the cover model for a K-tel compilation album, Bob Downe sang and danced his way through a collection of kitsch classics that had �em singing along to every embarrassing lyric. I felt like it was Saturday night at Aunty Betty�s place, circa 1973, and I�d been allowed to stay up with the grown-ups to drink beer, play records and watch The Penthouse Club on Channel 7.

The last time I saw Bob Downe was a few years ago at the Butterfly club, and that show was a little disappointing. It was like seeing Bob�s bad mood brother phone in a performance. His latest offering is a return to form. He�s fun, he�s cheeky (like the Pinot he stole from a woman in the audience) and he�s not afraid to give some of the more annoying public figures a serve. He named his microphone stand Kate Middleton and told it to go eat a sandwich! Bob gets political too; Mitt Romney, US republican candidate, cops a rather pointy barb.

Part quiz show, part vaudeville, part bitch-fest this performance was tight, energetic and had the audience grinning, grimacing and guffawing throughout the all-too-short hour of fat-free comedy. Put down your laneway coffee, pop your Melbourne black on, top up your cheeky Pinot, and get down to the Arts Centre to sing along with Uncle Bob.

Bob Downe in 20 Golden Greats is on at the Spiegeltent, Tuesday to Saturday 7pm, Sunday 6pm, until 22nd April.
Warrick Glynn

Australia's Prince of Polyester, Bob Downe, is back with a new show and, for the first time in many years, a new hairstyle.

Bob, who this year celebrates his 25th anniversary on the cabaret circuit, has upgraded his locks with a Justin Bieber-inspired 'do.

"I'm youngin' it up. I suddenly realised with new hair I can do the new jokes," he says of his show, 20 Golden Greats.

His hair has moved into the 21st century, but fans are warned not to expect Bob's material to have modernised.

"Oh no. I'm toying with the idea of recent songs, but there are just so many great songs from the old era, the '60s, '70s and '80s," he says. "I'll never get through all the good songs from then."

As an homage to the K-Tel Records compilation albums of the '70s, Downe will be working with backing CDs rather than a live band.

"With K-Tel it was always '20 original hits, 20 original artists', but then when you bought the record and you put it on, they were the original hits and the original artists, but they didn't run as long as the actual records; they'd just sort of fade out. You'd get about a minute-and-a-half, maybe two minutes of the record when what you wanted was the whole thing," he says.

"I'm paying tribute to that in this show, but my edits are a lot more clever because you don't realise where I've made the cuts so they feel more satisfying.

"It's all in the musicianship. If you do a verse, a bridge and a chorus, you don't even know it's shorter."

So, it's Bob Downe without the showbiz fanfare? "Exactly. You'll get an unadulterated me - just me on a bare stage. Maybe a stool and a table. Just me stripped back - unplugged."

But it won't be a drab affair, he promises.

"Oh no, I still manage to get three costume changes in there," Downe says.

"I don't know when this happened. I stepped out of the Tardis and went back to doing comedy festivals and suddenly everything had to be an hour long.

"When I first tried it I was freaking out because it usually takes me about 40 minutes just to say hello!

"But it's a good challenge. There's less in the way of long-form stories and more rat-a-tat. It's made me a bit more Don Rickles, a bit more Joan Rivers: set-up, punchline, set-up, punchline."

As for which classic numbers Downe will perform in the show, he's not giving anything away.

"I'm not allowed to say - I'd have to kill you," he says. "It's because there's a trivia element. It's a shame I can't tell you some of the song titles but it would be what we call a spoiler.

"After each song in the show there's a question and whoever in the audience yells out and gets the answer right wins a prize, personally delivered to their chair."

It's a form of audience participation Downe describes as "self-selecting". "It's not like a Barry Humphries thing, where you're a victim," he says. "Because you're the sort of person who has called out, you're 'self-selecting' - you're up for it. Up for a chat with Uncle Bob. It's a very interactive show, there's a lot of action in the house."

Including a couple of his trademark guest appearances.

"I can't say who, but they will be of a very high calibre," Downe says. "I never disappoint in that regard."

As he gets older, is it getting harder to deliver quality shows?

"No! No, no, no! I'm finding it easier as I get older. I don't think true artists peak until they're in their 50s," he says.

That theory doesn't seem to hold true for Madonna though? "Well she's not an artist, is she? She's what I would call a 'very determined' pop star."

Bob Downe's 20 Golden Greats opens at Sydney Theatre on May 23.
Kylie Northover

"You haven't changed a bit and neither have I!" he said as they puckered their lips for the camera for the 2012 parade internet TV coverage. Possibly Minogue hadn't seen an interview with Trevorrow's alter ego, Bob Downe, with his helmet of hair and huge lapels, made at Edinburgh, where he has crooned his 1960s and '70s hits for 15 fringe festivals. Downe hissed in the video that Minogue had done "extraordinarily well for someone who can't sing very well".

Seeking clarification, Life & Style checks with Trevorrow, who has brought his 20 Golden Greats repertoire to the Famous Spiegeltent for the International Comedy Festival.

"He didn't say that!" Trevorrow says. "Did he? How awful. Well, there certainly won't be any duets now, will there?"

Trevorrow was influenced by Monty Python's absurdity, the odd variety special and later Countdown, as he grew up in Murrumbeena in the '60s and '70s.

He knew well before adolescence that he was gay. "It was horrible," the 53-year-old recalls. "Every gay kid feels like they're the only one in the world.

"That level of fear and isolation takes decades to recover from - and many never do."

Trevorrow began hitting Melbourne's thriving gay subculture in the mid- to late 1970s. When I first interviewed Trevorrow five years ago, he told me that when he was 18, his mum asked him if he was gay because he had been too scared to tell her and she'd been "really devastated" by his silence on the matter.

"The other great thing that happened to me was, my best friend at school, we didn't know each other was gay all through school, and so I built up the courage to tell him I was gay when I was 18," he says. "I thought this was going to be the end of our friendship and then he said: 'Well, I am, too'."

Trevorrow's working life began as a copy boy on The Sun News-Pictorial. He wrote stories about kittens in trees, drama students in the Bourke Street Mall, shipping movements and market prices. Then he took over the daily pop column and his life in showbiz was born. In 1980, Trevorrow co-founded Melbourne musical comedy cabaret group The Globos, but Bob Downe was born in 1984 when Trevorrow started doing stand-up, hosting comedy nights at the Harold Park Hotel in Glebe.

He had moved to Sydney in 1982 when Kinselas, a one-time funeral parlour, opened as a cabaret. It was in Sydney he gained recognition as an artist, and it was where he fell in love for the first time.

Trevorrow's flatmates talked him out of going to his first Mardi Gras around that time because at the first one a few years earlier, in 1978, 53 people were arrested. "That's a me I don't even recognise; I don't recognise that person who was too scared to go," he says now.

Before long he was watching the parade at the same spot every year and later got involved, hosting the free-to-air telecasts as Bob Downe.

Next up, Trevorrow will be seen in the movie Kath and Kimderella - not as Daryl the Melbourne retail menswear assistant but another character; "can't say too much or the girls will edit me out of the picture".

Bob Downe - 20 Golden Greats is at the Famous Spiegeltent until April 22. artscentremelbourne.com.au
Steve Dow

Bob is singing and swinging his way through the latest solo extravaganza - 20 GOLDEN GREATS, presented by Sydney Theatre, for FIVE SHOWS ONLY, on 23-26 May.

After some years working in various production shows with bands and dancers, 20 GOLDEN GREATS features Bob just the way you like him - on his Pat Malone!

"That's right," says Murwillumbah's own beige boy, "I've left the group. I've gone solo! This time, you've got me all to yourself!" What's more, there's PRIZES GALORE as Bob introduces a trivia element into the show - get the answer right and there's a Bob Downe CD in it for you. "Just try and find one of THOSE in a shop!" laughs Bob.

Prepare to laugh yourself silly and sing along with the retro hits you love - Bob Downe is back and he's better than ever in 20 GOLDEN GREATS. It's the show where you'll come IN humming the tunes!

What: Bob Downe - 20 Golden Greats
When: Wednesday 23 May - Saturday 26 May 2012
Where: Sydney Theatre, 22 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay
More Info: http://www.sydneytheatre.org.au/

Downe is a consummate showman but I don't think I've ever seen a performer get so much response for so little effort. His eyebrows like frightened rabbits heading for the trademark thicket of fake blonde hair. His pale blue eyes crossed. His signature incoherent mumble-singing through clenched teeth. Downe extracted laughter from the crowd of 40 and 50-somethings like an amateur golfer trying to hit out of the rough. One stand out moment was a throw away punchline about elastics (the schoolyard jumping game) that had the platinum Soccermum in front of me in conniptions. “We used to do that in school!” she gasped.

There were moments of the sharper comedian within - digs at Margaret Court's homophobic ranting as well as the folded armed husbands who accompanied their wives to watch this 'silly poof' singing show tunes. I have a lot of time for Downe but this was man declawed, less a send up of the Vaudeville-era variety comedians and more a straight-up imitation. But for a solid sixty minutes of song, one liners and audience eye-fucking you couldn't ask for a better act than Downe. He could do this show asleep and underwater and would still dazzle like Venus rising from the surf.

Chuckle Factor: 3.5 / 5

Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Spiegeltent
Until April 22, Tues-Sat 7pm, Sun 6pm
$25-$32

BOB Downe is an enduring comic creation (and if not quite the golden great, then at least a golden pretty good). His hundred-watt smile and blonde wig have been with us for almost three decades. The experience shows.

20 Golden Greats attracts an odd mix of gays and geriatrics, keen to watch polyester magic made from the vinyl of yesteryear. They're unlikely to be disappointed by the songs, from an amusing reworking of Men at Work's Down Under to a high-voltage cover of The Mamas and the Papas with special guest Pastel Vespa.

Regrettably, the stand-up is comic Polyfilla. Downe milks everything in sight and compulsively gives out free CDs in a quiz-night format that draws attention to the limitations of his shtick. His naughty greeting card poems are a standout amid repetitive, lacklustre fare. Still, the best of the cabaret sparkles.
Cameron Woodhead

That hair! Those moves! That tracksuit! Australia's prince of the polyester, champion of the caravan park and ruler of all things delightfully kitsch has returned to Melbourne in sartorial splendour to entrance and flirt his way through this year's Comedy Festival.

The years have been kind to Bob, still spunky and lithe at 53. That his act, stuffed full of the Bob Downe style, cheese flavoured, that commanded the full house on opening night, is still fresh and relevant after 20+ years of performing, is a testament to the man himself and his evergreen agent, Mark Trevorrow.

Blasting on to the Spiegeltent stage to his uproarious rendition of Does Your Mother Know, flouncing around the stage and seducing us with those gymnastic vocals that defy description, Bob's show barely takes a breath for the next 60 laugh-soaked minutes. Seriously people, I have never heard an audience so consistently laughing. It was joyous to behold. There is even a trivia section that rewards you with a Bob Downe CD, artwork curtesy of the home Epsom.

Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You, Land Down Under, Love Is In the Air, California Dreaming and a soaring Born Free are just some of the numbers that receive the Bob Downe treatment. In between, his gaydar got a good airing as he searched for a.....ahem.....nephew, he stole poor Mel's beer from half way back in the theatre but not before committing a seriously funny act on the glass and he generally both seduces and adores his audience, with a flashy grin and muscle-defying eye movements. We also get a special guest star in the guise of Pastel Vespa and duets with her on a couple of brilliant numbers. Their soaring harmonies and easy rapport works particularly well in a ridiculously funny rendition of Guilty.

If you have never experienced Bob Downe, you need to get your butt to the Famous Spiegeltent quick smart. If you're a returning fan, prepare to continue to worship your safari suited king. I know I’ll be back.
Chris Baldock

The show starts off with a brilliant modern twist as Downe bounces on stage in a full tracksuit and flicked up new hairdo – a homage of sorts, to who the modern day Bob may look like – Sue Sylvester from hit TV show Glee.

"Do you like the new duds? Do you like the new do? It's a little Sue Sylvester don't you think?" Downe asks the audience who are already in stitches. It then switches to laughter pandemonium as they watch him peel off the tracksuit to reveal a full polyester suit underneath, showing that he is the same Bob he has always been.

Pre-prepared songs, comic stories and costume changes are complimented by large section of pure fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants improvisation that make Bob Downe so entertaining and just a bit dangerous to watch.

Prepare yourself for a brilliant highlight when Bob teams up with long time duet partner, the fabulous Pastel Vespa. Their few tracks together and onstage banter is gold.

Mark Trevorrow – the man behind Bob Downe – has been playing this loved subversive queer character for the best part of 20 years. I'm a huge fan of this fabulous and in my opinion underrated performer. 20 Golden Greats shows that he is still as revered and relevant, though his ability to connect with new audiences may have wained a bit, and the character needs a bit more concentrated work to stay sharp.

I'm not that young and still as a 30 something I struggled to get into some of the music featured, however he did make them accessible through his hilarious performance of them. I did enjoy some of the more modern references – like Sue Sylvester – and also the way that Bob has developed into a rude and smutty man as he reluctantly faces a future of getting older. It could have had all the hilarity and discomfort of a reluctant fading Denis Walters or John Burgass on an RSL tour for the blue rinse set. Trevorrow could really have developed this a lot more to make it the cutting and edgy satire for which his became famous. Also at times I felt he dropped out of character which is a shame, because it watered down the fantastic performance he put in, in the rest of the show.

Fans of Bob Downe will absolutely delight in 20 Golden Greats, and for those who havn't had the good fortune of experiencing this iconic phenomenon, you're in for a real treat of entertainment. Brush up on your golden oldies! You're gonna want to sing along.

Bob Downe's ‘20 Golden Greats' is on at the Famous Spiegeltent, every evening till 22 April, as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
Travis de Jonk

“And does that man Bob know how to work a room!”

'Does Your Mother Know That You're Out', 'You're Just Too Good to be True'…the hits just kept on coming. In between numbers, the audience was treated to a little bit of Bob: he let us in on the little known secret that he was training for gold in the upcoming Olympics 100 metre Run Like A Girl sprint (hence the choice of attire), snippets of gossip about members of the close knit Downe family including brother Mark (in retailing), sister Di (a nurse in emergency)and mother Ida (self-proclaimed President for Life of the Northern Rivers CWA after attending a fact-finding mission in North Korea). The audience just lapped it up.

And does that man Bob know how to work a room! Competition was fierce amongst adoring audience-members for the Bob Downe CDs and commemorative greeting cards that were given out throughout the course of the evening as prizes for correct answers to Bob's trivia questions. At one point things were looking ugly as Sean and Pauline faced off for the Bob Downe Happy Mardi Gras card, but peace-maker Bob saved the day by producing an extra card from God knows where. The man is a miracle-worker, as was evident to all the assembled throng during the Barry Manilow/Cher medley and beyond.

Halfway through the hour-long performance, the audience was treated to a costume change and introduced to the lovely Pastel Vespa, a young lady of indeterminate origin who helped Bob out in a couple of numbers. 'We've Got Nothing To Be Guilty Of' has never been sung with more conviction, or by a more brightly-coloured couple.

There was a lot of love in the tent come the final costume change (think mardi gras Austin Powers). The closing number was a tribute to the late great Davy Jones, a particular Downe (and Vulture) favourite, that had the audience singing along like little larks, arms aloft, before being ushered out into the balmy autumnal evening, humming 'Daydream Believer' and remembering their glory days.

One for the Baby Boomers and all lovers of quality pop tunes and Life.

VENUE
The Famous Spiegeltent at Arts Centre Melbourne
100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

PRICES
Full Fri & Sat $32
Concession Fri & Sat $30
Group (10 or more) Fri & Sat $30
Laugh Pack Fri & Sat $30
Full Wed-Thu & Sun $28
Preview $26
Concession Wed-Thu & Sun $25
Group (10 or more) Wed-Thu & Sun $25 Laugh Pack Wed-Thu & Sun $25
Tightarse Tuesday $25
Betty Barker

29 March - 22 April, 2012

Audience responses:

"Hilarious"

"So entertaining!"

"Always amazing"

Singing, dancing, dazzling costume changes, trivia and giveaways, 20 Golden Greats has it all.

Bob Downe is back with a musical bonanza that will delight the ears and sooth the eyes. Funny, clever, and a with a little bit of Australiana, he doesn’t disappoint.

Inviting us into his musical journey, Bob Downe easily makes you feel right at home. Comfortable, confident and always engaging on stage, he leaves you wishing the greats had no end.

Definitely a show worth attending, Bob shines on stage with all the glamour, joy, cleverness and wisdom of the greats.

He is also blessed with a mellifluous voice and a gift for parody like no other.

If anything, Bob's voice seems to have improved with age, like a cellared wine.

Prepare to sing along with some of the smarmiest songs ever written and leave with a smile almost as wide as Bob's.

Funny line, from one of Bob's homemade greeting cards: "Happy Mardi Gras, although you say you're straight, there's seven guys who know you're not, can I be number eight?"

BOB DOWNE: 20 GOLDEN GREATS
Spiegeltent until April 22
Same old Bob (just as adorable)

Stars: 4
Baz Blakeney

Venue

The Famous Spiegel Tent
100 St Kilda Rd The Arts Centre
Melbourne, VIC3004

Artists
Bob Downe

Price
$28.00 $25 conc. See below for more info.

Gig Description

Before there was Bob Downe, there was Mark Trevorrow, a young copywriter on Melbourne’s Herald Sun. In an era when journalistic method involved a dozen pints, two packets of cigarettes and an incorrectness of political thought that would make the Country Party blush, it fell to Trevorrow to recall his colleagues back to the office. “I didn’t get to attend those meetings, but as a 17yo copy boy I used to have to go and drag them back to the office,” Trevorrow says. “They didn't like it.”

30 years after those formative years, and Trevorrow is a successful comedian, having created the stylish, witty, debonair and delightfully camp Bob Downe. Journalism, however, continues to plummet. “There’s not enough stories and way too much comment,” Trevorrow muses. As for the prospect of Gina Rinehart – a personality some would suggests exists at the polar extreme to Bob Downe – controlling significant sections of the Australian media, Trevorrow is philosophical. “Well, she did co-create Kath & Kim so it's a natural development,” he says.

Trevorrow’s Bob Downe character revives an era when ‘entertainers’ dominated the entertainment industry. In the modern era of self-publishing and self-promotion, ‘celebrities’ dominate: Posh, Kim Kardashian, Paris Hilton and a host of even lesser lights. For Trevorrow, the distinction between entertainer and a celebrity is simple. “Entertainers actually have some sort of talent,” he deadpans.

With just about everything sold these days seems to come with a warning, or is subject to a media scare campaign about long-term health effects, Bob Downe has managed to remain a walking health risk, dressed from head to toe in polyester, with a head full of hair spray. Are you aware of any significant health effects that come from the regular wearing of polyester? “None whatsoever. It is completely inert,” Trevorrow says. “And hair spray isn’t a problem when you hold your breath.”

As for the prospect of Bob’s hair being donated to the Powerhouse Museum, possibly for display alongside Midnight Oil’s Sorry suits, Trevorrow has a better option. “I'd much rather it was next to Little Patti's surfboard, and Maude Boate's original Priscilla head dresses!”

In the 1980s Bob hosted Good Morning Murwillumbah in regional New South Wales. Trevorrow,sadly, hasn’t kept up with changes in the world of breakfast television. “I wouldn't know!” he laughs. “I make it a point not to wake up before 11.” Do you think regional broadcasting is Kyle Sandilands’ logical end-point if he continues his current on-air behaviour? ”Actually, I think he might end up owning the station. It worked for Alan Jones!” Trevorrow laughs.

Bob Downe’s upcoming show at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival will continue the Downe celebration of fashion, song and camp vaudeville entertaintment. “There will be more great hits! More fab costumes! Same old jokes!” Trevorrow promises. What about people who don’t ‘get’ Bob’s shtick – is there anything there for them? “No,” Trevorrow replies resolutely. “They should go to the aquarium.”

Looking forward into the future, and Trevorrow suggests Downe will remain a model of consistency, transcending fad, but always remaining in fashion. “In ten years’ time Bob will probably be much the same as now, I have no doubt!” If you had to write Bob’s epitaph, what would it be? "Oi!! Over here!" Trevorrow laughs.
Patrick Emery

In his show for this year's Comedy Festival the man who made Mark Trevorrow famous performs 20 Golden Greats at the Spiegeltent – a perfect venue for his intimate banter and audience participation (watch out if you're drinking white wine in the front row – he gets thirsty). Bob says he loves the Spiegeltent: "If I get in the right position I can see myself reflected about twenty times."

Like some of his lounge lizard pant suits, squeezing 20 hits into the strict one-hour limit of a Comedy Fest show is a tight fit, but somehow he crams them in, plus loads of chat and nonsense in between.

While he's become synonymous with Sydney and its Mardi Gras, he's not shy to expose his Melbourne roots with a few deft jibes, and the audience laps it up. There's also an ongoing music trivia quiz with a CD of his own live recording from last year as prize, so swat up on your golden oldies for a chance to win. I won't spoil the show by revealing too many hits but, safe to say, if you like Abba and Barry Manilow singalongs, you'll have a blast.

Bob belts out the nostalgic tunes with his lusty lungs while cruising the room, shimmying his little tush (rather well, actually) and generally bringing colour and movement to our otherwise beige world. Yes, there are almost more costume changes than his beloved Kylie, from his "Pepsi Max trackie dacks" to gorgeous glamazon ensembles, with cravats in full flight. By the time he's joined on stage temporarily by Brazilian lounge music crooner Pastel Vespa, the pair is "dressed by Mattel". Pastel almost steals the stage with her vocal rendition of the guitar solo from The Mamas and The Papas classic California Dreamin', but Bob soon shoos her off again and has the audience back, following his every word and eating out of his hand.

Mary Tobin and Melbourne International Comedy Festival present
Bob Downe 20 Golden Greats
Created by Mark Trevorrow

Venue: The Famous Spiegeltent at the Arts Centre, 100 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne
Dates: 29 March - 22 April 2012
Times: Tue-Sat 7pm,
Sun 6pm
Tickets: Concession/Group/Laugh Pack $25; Full $30 ($32 Fri & Sat)
Bookings: artscentremelbourne.com.au, 1300 182 183, Ticketmaster 1300 660 013 & at the door
Jane Canaway

Downe's shows frequently undermine the conventions of show biz, bringing a humorous and unexpected element of truth to his cabaret world. His upbeat persona means that he can get away with an awful lot, such asking the audience about Barry Manilow, "Do you think he's a poof?" before bursting into song.

"Trevorrow is also clear that his primary mission is to entertain, so he knows how to make a point such as on gay marriage without dominating the show with political sentiment." It's no accident that Bob Downe is a long-running character. He makes sure that he gives his audiences what he's known for, such as his lounge-infused vocals of cheesy songs such as ‘Afternoon Delight', but keeps things fresh through the odd "surprise" guest, this time songstress Pastel Vespa. Keeping fans updated with family events back home in country NSW Murwillumbah, helps give continuity to the Downe story.

Trevorrow is also clear that his primary mission is to entertain, so he knows how to make a point such as on gay marriage without dominating the show with political sentiment. Downe displays a good understanding of his audience, cleverly dropping in the odd pop culture reference; his line on punters getting tanked up at Young & Jackson's before the show because of the Spiegeltent's drink prices got one of the biggest laughs of the night.

They sure do pack ‘em in at the Spiegeltent, so try to get close to the front or to the elevated sides to marvel at Downe's fancy footwork as he powers on in polyester.
Jason Whyte

A glittering sea of performers opened the Melbourne International Comedy Festival last night as host Julia Morris led dancers in a parody of There's No Business Like Show Business.

It was a big opening number to set up a dazzling procession of comedy talent in the Allstars Super Show at the Palais Theatre.

Home-grown star Tom Gleeson led the first act, which included favourites Denise Scott, Sam Simmons, Bob Downe and big international Wanda Sykes.

Comedy heavyweights such as Wil Anderson and Jimeoin kept the momentum going for the second half, along with Felicity Ward, Des Bishop and Kyle Kinane, one of the buzz acts of the festival.

So begins a month of non-stop laughs as more than 400 acts take over the city to present Australia's biggest cultural festival.

Festival manager Virginia Lovett said the energy kicked in once the yellow festival banners were flying in the city.

"There's a really amazing buzz on the ground for this festival," Ms Lovett said.

"After all the disasters that we've had, and what's been happening in politics, I think people are really keen to get out there and have a bit of fun."
Sally Bennett

Entertainment reporter Donna Demaio shares her thoughts on some of what’s on offer (more than 400 acts in total) at this year’s festival:

Tom Gleeson - Classy , slick, comfortable. All smiles.

Mark Thomas (UK) - Passionately punctuates his way through observational humour with a social conscience.

Denise Scott – Talks regrets and dementia, an endearing comedy star.

Mark Watson (UK) – Nervous energy, jumpy, a little scattered…did I mention a bit jumpy. Funny bits.

Kumail Nanjiani (US) – Tackles the touchy topics. Grows on you. Amusing.

Wanda Sykes (US) – Watch out for the swearing. Accomplished.

Fiona Harris and Mike McLeish – A little awkward. Limited time really worked against the couple.

Simon Munnery (UK) – Ooh, adore the one liners and lovely voice. Smooth delivery.

Shappi Khorsandi (UK) – Why do comedians feel compelled to ask, “Melbourne, you all right?”

Sam Simmons – Managed to get half-naked. A little nuts.

Greg Behrendt – (US) – Great face, great delivery, great four minutes, great expressions, want to see more.

Bob Downe – Nobody works polyester like Downe. Love.

Wellington Ukelele Orchestra – More musical interlude than comedy. Beautiful voices and ridiculous outfits.

Kyle Kinane – Talks Ikea. Grizzly.

New Art Club (UK) – Very physical humour. Dance and prance. Hilarious.

Wil Anderson – Does angst so well. In fact, let’s go with rapid-fire comic genius.

Felicity Ward – Confident, stylish, sweet. Talks children and dogs.

Idiots of Ants (UK) – Really, really, really funny. Skit comedy with a sexism twist. Got belly laughs out of me.

Jimeoin – Master of the subtle facial expression. Tells a good tale. Dry wit.

Dead Cat Bounce – Rock band. Gold pants did look good.

Jeff Green – Adore. The simple things like trams and caravans. Tells a wicked story. Funny.

Jimmy McGhie – Best punch line of the night. Clever.

Des Bishop – Divine. Tells a great story. Funny. True artist.

And congratulations to Julia Morris who, as MC, was perfectly brash, ballsy and hilarious.vFootnote: remember the above thoughts are based on a few minutes, actual shows may differ in content, style and delivery.
Donna Demaio

1. THERE may not be a lot of high-end, theatrical comedy in the 2012 programme but a few shows look set to push the boundaries of cabaret and character. My pick of the festival is the inimitable BOB DOWNE (Famous Spiegeltent from March 29), the clown-prince of cheesy, 60s club singers, attired in his polyester, safari suits and Ken doll wig. His whiter than white, artificial smile and finger-clicking style are always accompanied by wicked, witty repartee and a delicious repertoire of songs.

2. DAMIAN CALLINAN, as Robinson Crusoe (Melbourne Town Hall from March 29) looks like a treat of laconic, engaging storytelling as he reveals his childhood lost-on-an-island tale of woe about being locked out of his family home.

3. I've been hanging out to see smart UK comic SHAPPI KHORSANDI in Me and My Brother in Our Pants Holding Hands (Melbourne Town Hall from March 29), where we are sure to see the impact of her Iranian heritage.

4. WIL ANDERSON, in Wilarious (Comedy Theatre from March 27), finds yet another pun on his name and I'm hoping for more of his intelligent, engaging and wicked humour.

5. STEPHEN K. AMOS (Melbourne Town Hall from March 29) always has a hidden agenda in his intelligent, relaxed comedy that surreptitiously includes incisive social commentary. It's good to see some mature comics when we have such a startling prejudice towards youth and Gen Y.
Kate Herbert

Iconic Aussie entertainer Bob Downe is back, teeth and all, for this outrageously droll cabaret of sing-a-long favourites.

Performer Mark Trevorrow has been making audiences laugh as the Prince of Polyester for more than two decades, although this time the Murwillumbah legend has swapped his signature safari suit for a track suit.

From the opening destruction of Roy Orbison’s Pretty Woman, Downe continues to roll out the laughs with his unique brand of silliness. He has a great voice and a fluid body, dancing around the stage in his inimitable style, but Downe can also tickle the funny bone with just a look, a pause or a turn of phrase, finely balancing both subtle and over-the-top comedy.

His renditions of popular songs are all good, from Frankie Valli’s Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You, and Men at Work’s Land Down Under to The Monkees’ Daydream Believer. He’s joined by local celebrity Anne Wills for a kiss and tell revelation and a couple of fine duets.

Between songs, Downe gives the audience a pop quiz and introduces his own brand of mock greeting cards. The hour long show is far too short, as is the season, ending this coming weekend. Get in quick for a tried and true laugh.

Reviewed by Rod Lewis, Performing Arts Critic, Glam Adelaide.

Adelaide Fringe – Bob Downe – 20 Golden Greats

Venue: Arts Theatre, 53 Angas Street, Adelaide
Season: 8-17 March
Duration: 60 mins
Tickets: $32-$35
Bookings: Fringetix 1300-FRINGE (1300-374643), Fringe outlets or online
Rod Lewis

The king of camp comedy has returned with a new show and he's sporting a youthful new haircut the Bieber fringe.

Not that you'll hear any of Biebs' pop tunes during this 60-minute musical and comedy extravananza.

Bob aka Mark Trevorrow takes his audience on a trip down memory lane, performing classic pop, disco and rock hits in his own, inimitable style.

Mixing easily with his adoring crowd, Bob lights up the stage with his colourful outfits, charismatic persona and surprisingly good voice.

While Bob was obviously the star attraction, the highlight of the night came in the form of a special guest appearance by TV legend Anne Wills, who performed a couple of classic duets with him, showing she's lost none of her talent or flair.

Bob Downe 20 Golden Greats

Arts Theatre, until March 17
Antimo Iannella

I first saw Bob Downe on TV in London in, I think, about 1992. For some reason, the self-styled Prince of Polyester resonated with me and I found him hilarious without ever quite knowing why. Nothing much has changed. I may be fatter, older and balder but Bob still looks as youthfully effervescent at the age of 53 as he did all those years ago, and is just as wonderfully funny. If only he still wore the legendary beige safari suit...

There is something quintessentially Australian about Bob Downe, but I don't quite know just what it is. Perhaps it's his warmth and the sheer delight he seems to take in performing. You cannot help but think that he lives to be on stage and that really does reach every corner of the theatre. Mind you, the feeling is very much reciprocated. Many performers have fans who enjoy watching them, many have devoted followers, but I have rarely seen a crowd that so adores their idol. Genuinely adores him. Bob (we can't even conceive of him under his real name, Mark Trevorrow) could literally do anything on the stage and he would have the audience in raptures. And what a mixed audience it is - he has a demographic that other acts can only dream of

For those of you who have never seen Bob perform, his genre is probably best defined as retro-kitsch (another sign of the impact he has made on me, as this sort of thing is not normally my cup of tea at all). He performs classic pop from the 60s, 70s and 80s punctuated with gags and banter, and enhanced by nifty but naff dance routines. But I think it is the eyes and teeth that really seal the deal. He has a piercing, wide-eyed stare and stage-school smile that have to be seen to be believed, topped off (literally) by the most immoveable hairdo known to man. He started the show in a 70s style tracksuit, but then stripped down to reveal his Caribbean Cruise Collection - floral shirt and stunning white polyester slacks, while a mirror ball whirled away gaudily above. You get the picture...

It is only right and proper to point out, however, that Bob Downe really can sing. I have never seen Mr Trevorrow in any context other than as Bob Downe (except in some episodes of Kath and Kim) but it would be great to hear him belting out some big band classics, as under the playful camp there is unquestionably a truly fine interpreter of a song. I would also love to hear him doing some Sondheim one day, or perhaps some Noel Coward. That I would travel a long way to see.

It is also worth mentioning that Bob really does seem to know and like Adelaide and his many knowing references to the city and its personalities are very entertaining and only made the crowd love him more (if such a thing were possible). And, as a final coup de theatre he is joined on stage by a local living legend, who tells a truly scandalous story about William Shatner, a yellow sports car and a trip to Windy Point. Get along to the Arts Theatre if you want to find out more...
Mark Angus

Bob Downe aka Mark Trevorrow never fails to disappoint each time he comes back to the Adelaide Fringe. His new show 20 Golden Greats, isn’t any different.

Bob is back in town, singing a medley of hits with humour and awkward dance moves which will leave you laughing so hard you will have to catch your breath.

The audience range from young to old and he works the audience with clever banter and wit.

A special surprise guest joins Bob for a sing-a-long. I won’t spoil it by telling you who – you have to go to the show to find out who it is!

Yes, Bob Downe is glorified karaoke but it is fantastic, funny, well worth seeing, glorified karaoke!

You won’t be disappointed!

Bob Downe, 20 Golden Greats is on at the Arts Theatre, Angas Street until 17th March

Buy your tickets here – do it! http://www.adelaidefringe.com.au
Angie McBride

Resplendent in faux denim safari jacket and sporting his trademark "do" that is two parts Margaret Pomeranz, one part Justin Bieber, Downe trod the boards of the Spiegeltent, the venue for his upcoming Comedy Festival show and which will house shows each day for the full run of the festival from March 28 to April 22.

Launching the festival, Susan Provan in her 17th consecutive year as its director gave special mention to a smattering of the roughly 400 acts, such as international favourites Dave Gorman (back after a few years' absence) and serial visitors such as Steven K Amos, as well as the Australian debuts of Emmy award-winning Wanda Sykes and Dixie Longate in Dixie's Tupperware Party.

Australian acts returning after a festival hiatus include Judith Lucy, Sarah Kendall and Frank Woodley, plus dozens of acts trying their luck in the national open mike comedy competition RAW Comedy, which spawned the likes of Peter Helliar and Claire Hooper, who also have shows this year.

As Australia's largest ticketed cultural event (it sold a record 430,000 tickets last year - a substantial feat given the AFL sold 2.5 million tickets to MCG matches in 2011), the festival continues to swallow up Melbourne by taking over 129 venues, many of which have to be custom-fitted as they are not normally performance venues.

And in it's second year as a comedy festival venue, the Spiegeltent forms the centre of a new hub at the Arts Centre Melbourne, including the Playhouse and the Fairfax Theatre for the first time, that sees the festival absorbed into the arts precinct on St Kilda Road, with even the National Gallery of Victoria hosting tours by Hannah Gadsby.

Programs are out today as well as an iPhone app. comedyfestival.com.au
Mark Ellis

The cheesy alter-ego of home-grown comedian Mark Trevorrow was among the acts to launch the festival at the Spiegeltent today, giving a tantalising taste of what's ahead in Australia's biggest cultural festival.

More than 400 comedy shows from around the world will take over the city from March 28-April 22, including local and international stars, top young talent and surprise gems.

Bob Downe, who last month celebrated 25 years in showbiz, will be taking audiences through the old hit parade in a month-long season of 20 Golden Greats, which he performed in Edinburgh and was persuaded to bring home.

"I gave Bob a rest and did a lot of work as myself for about 10 years," he said.

"Then I came back to it and rediscovered my enthusiasm for something that I created, which is very special to so many people.

"The other things is it lets me sing and I love to sing. I'm like a one-man Gold FM."

Comedy Festival director Susan Provan said this year's program offered the unparalleled opportunity to see the best of world comedy in our own backyard.

Top overseas performers include Melbourne first-timers Tim Fitzhigham and Wanda Sykes, as well as now regulars Paul Foot, Jason Byrne, Ross Noble, Dave O'Doherty, Stephen K Amos and Mark Watson.

On the home front, local stars Judith Lucy, Frank Woodley and Dave Hughes are returning to the festival, joining a long list of favourites including Wil Anderson, Sam Simmons, Cal Wilson, Tom Gleeson, Hannah Gadsby and Charlie Pickering.

Provan said this year's free family entertainment, centred around Federation Square, would be an "extraordinary" mix of street artists never seen in Australia.

"Most importantly, Australian artists are the heart and soul of this festival," she said.

"One of the best things you can do is go and see your faves, but then close your eyes and pick five young Australian performers that you've never heard of.

"Chances are you will find something fabulous and you'll become a fan."
Sally Bennett

Seminal London-based DJ Wayne G and the ubiquitous Shauna Jensen have teamed up for A Family Affair, a one-off night of disco and dance anthems at the Oxford Hotel's Supper Club with a veritable smorgasbord of some of the community's favourite artists, including Peyton, Bob Downe, Courtney Act, Rhys Bobridge, Rebekah Wheatley, Michael Wheatley, Naomi Palmer and Terrance Wakewood.

"We've got the cream of the crop," Jensen tells SX. "We wanted to create an event where they community could just hang out for an evening, singing the songs we love. There's nothing quite like making music with your family!

"We did a similar night a couple of years ago and everyone who came had so much fun so we thought we'd do it again � but with even more performers."

It will come as no surprise that Jensen herself will be assaulting the stage more than once throughout the night. "I'll be performing a couple of duets with Peyton and Bob Downe, as well as some of my songs," she says. "We might also have a couple of surprise guests on the night � but you'll have to come to find out."

A Family Affair will be a difference beast from the other Mardi Gras festival events on the strip in that it's not a dance party per se. "It's more a mini-concert that'll have you dancing," Jensen quips. "But we will definitely be partying � we'll have a couple of musicians playing with us to mix things up a bit too."

The intimate Supper Club is the perfect venue to create the family atmosphere as well, Jensen says. "We want to see as many people there as we can squeeze into the venue. We want to give you a warm, fuzzy feeling to take you into the weekend. We're also donating all the profits from the night to charity."

Wednesday, February 29, 7pm, The Supper Club, Oxford Hotel, Darlinghurst. Tickets from www.moshtix.com.au.
Garrett Bithell

"It's a fabulous, early evening (6pm-midnight) of great music and performances," Downe said. "Along with a bunch of stellar surprise guest stars who will blow your tiny minds, as usual."

Downe attended the first Sleaze Ball in 1982, and his first Mardi Gras party in either '84 or '85. He first performed with the Globos in the cabaret tent in 1987, then in the Hordern with Cindy Pastel and Pat Gently in 1991.

He also broadcast straight from the Parade eight times.

Downe said he might be keen to reprise this role.

"With my Retro-Gras Tea-Dance the Sunday before, I'm actually available for a Parade broadcast, (hint, hint!) and free to enjoy the party as just another freeloading VIP punter," he said.

"I'm hoping to bring Deni Hines or Ian Roberts as my date — and then I'll be completely left alone. Lovely!"

Unfortunately, he wouldn't spill the beans about which safari suit he would don.

"I can't give too much away but I'm thinking of coming as a straight girl on E. Does anyone have a feather boa and a jewelled iPhone case I can borrow?"

The Mardi Gras veteran supports the changes made by the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras this year.

"I'm delighted by the fresh energy and commitment around keeping alive our unique, world renowned version of Pride," Downe said.

Through all the controversy, Downe said his favourite part of Mardi Gras is that it brings everyone together.

"It's the gathering of the tribe or more accurately, 40 years after Stonewall, tribes!" Downe said. "It's a unique, annual opportunity to catch up with chums — old and new, local and from around the globe — during the most beautiful part of Sydney's summer.

"And if they go to all that trouble to put on a giant Festival, Parade and Party on your doorstep, why on earth would you not take part?"

The Prince of Polyester is suiting up for his umpteenth visit and handing out some style tips for Adelaide's own PM Julia Gillard.

"I think our First Bloke Tim Mathieson is doing a perfectly marvellous job already," Downe says. "But I would certainly add the odd poncho to her wardrobe - very flattering."

Downe believes the PM had a tough initiation into the job.

"Jules has had the trial by fire that we always subject our new PMs to," he says. "She's a striking redhead, what more can I say! I'm actually thinking of going 'ranga' myself."

The performer insists he has no need of a hairstylist. "I do it myself ... though I just wish I was married to Patti Newton," he confesses.

"She exclusively does Bert's just before he leaves the house - can't you tell?"

Despite his penchant for the distinctive suits, Downe admits he has never actually been on safari. "But I do love camping and I did go to Maslin Beach over New Year. Does that count?"

Downe promises to sing only songs that "everyone knows" in his 20 Golden Greats Fringe outing, with "no belting".

"I'll be singing them," he says. "Rock, pop, disco - I cover the music elevators adore. As for the actual song selection, I'm only just looking on iTunes karaoke now."

Downe denies any part in the departure of Kerri-Anne Kennerley from Ch 9.

"Well, even if I did want her job, it didn't quite work out did it?" he says. "And I won't be hosting The Circle either.

"No, I'm going to make some funny earrings and do the weather on Ch 9 Adelaide. Where there's a Willsy, there's a way."

Downe says the Adelaide Fringe is his favourite March gig and he offers free advice to rising comedy stars.

"Get an electrician or plumbing apprenticeship. That's where the money is. There's too many of us already!"

Bob Downe's 20 Golden Greats, Arts Theatre, March 8-17. Book at FringeTix
Matt Byrne