Liz’s wit and wisdom

Elizabeth Hicklin, better known as Liz or Lizzy to her many friends, is shaking up the comedy scene at 93, proving you’re never too old to make people laugh. With a sharp wit and a cheeky sense of humour, Liz – who hails from Mornington – has transformed from a self-published author to what she calls a “stand-up sit-down comedian”, delighting Melbourne audiences with her hilarious takes on life.

Liz’s comedic journey started many years ago in the most unlikely of places: her reproduction doll studio business. During a doll show and dinner at the Camberwell Civic Centre, she decided to recite a couple of funny poems about buying and selling antique dolls. “The audience loved it so I thought ‘I’ve got them where they live’,” Liz said. Encouraged by this response, she wrote more humorous doll-related poems, eventually selling more than 1000 copies both here and in the US and becoming a popular after-dinner speaker at doll shows across the country.

Her big break into stand-up came at the Clunes Booktown Festival in 2023. During an author talk with ABC Radio’s Jacinta Parsons, Liz made a bold announcement about taking part in a slam poetry competition that evening, which she went on to win. “I am 92, and I am here, and I am going in the slam poetry competition tonight, and I am going to say a four-letter word,” she told the audience, securing their attention and admiration. This led to two ABC gigs where her quick wit and engaging stories captivated audiences. A listener even likened her to the legendary Maggie Smith, a compliment Liz treasures.

Liz’s first public performance as a comedian was at the Geelong Arts Centre, where she performed her winning slam poem. The poem, a humorous take on widowhood and old age, had the audience in stitches. “It went on to talk about men in their disability scooters, fuelled by the last drops of testosterone,” Liz said. “They loved that.” Her confident delivery and clever observations made her an instant hit.

Jacinta then arranged for Liz to perform at Local Laughs in St Kilda. Sharing the stage with comedians Claire Hooper and Lehmo, Liz’s seven-minute act was a resounding success. Her son humorously noted that his mother’s new career "makes one question one’s own decisions", highlighting the unexpected path Liz has taken.

Drawing inspiration from such iconic shows as Kath and Kim, Are You Being Served? and Fawlty Towers, Liz’s comedic style combines sharp observations with playful banter. “I get inspiration from Kath and Kim, especially when they do the couple in the homewares shop, Prue and Trude,” she said. “And of course I love the English comedies.”

Liz admits that while she’s new to the comedy scene, she’s been diligently studying comedy books from the library, learning the intricacies of timing and delivery. “It is almost a science. The books encourage you to do a lot of writing.” She recommends aspiring comedians take every opportunity that comes their way, try open mic events, and never be afraid to start something new no matter their age. “There are the odd open mic comedy events. Try anything; I do.”

Liz’s story isn’t just about comedy; it’s about embracing life with a sense of adventure and a willingness to try new things. Her journey from nurse to doll shop owner to author to stand-up comedian at 93 is a delightful reminder that age is just a number and there’s always time for a new beginning. Liz says it best: “I need a passion in life, a purpose, a challenge.”

Catch Liz’s next comedy gig at 2pm on Sunday, July 28, at Wickers Club, Elsternwick Park Sports Club, 170 Glen Huntly Rd, Brighton. For tickets and more information, contact Lawrence on 0414 832 700 or lawrencejmoney@gmail.com

SARAH HALFPENNY