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Clip description
Host Wendy Harmer interviews an audience member about then prime minister Bob Hawke’s resolution to clean up the language of politicians in parliament.
Curator’s notes
Wendy Harmer was The Big Gig’s first host and audience question and answer sessions were a regular part of her act. Here she gets topical quoting Paul Keating. At the time Keating was Australia’s treasurer and, as shown here, a fount of comical material. Keating later became prime minister.
It’s clear from this clip why Wendy Harmer was a popular host. As a stand-up comedian, she is able to think quickly on her feet, but she also has a down-to-earth manner that is easy to relate to and not threatening. Having her walk among the audience is an effective technique for personalising the segment and making the viewers feel more a part of the show.
