Type: Comedy Festival, Slapstick, Character Work
If You Liked: Legal dramas, self-reflection, educational material
The mushroom murder trial famously rocked Australia’s legal system in 2025, propelling the woman at the centre of it (Erin Patterson) into the public eye. Joseph Green worked as an associate to the judge in this case and here documents his unique, firsthand experience in Mushroom Lady & Me. While some may consider this show’s premise “too soon” and question the legality of a staff member commenting on proceedings they were a part of, I can report that these preconceptions can be set aside.
This show lets audiences peek behind the curtain of the Supreme Court’s administrative processes and does indeed shed light on a particularly memorable interaction between Green and Patterson (before one of them was convicted of several counts of murder). As a refreshing creative choice, the details of the crime itself are largely sidestepped, with Green instead offering a personal retelling of this chapter in his life and the chaotic situations he found himself in during his time studying law.
Green’s performance is confident and engaging, particularly in sections when explaining the day-to-day tasks of an associate that may not otherwise seem out of the ordinary. There is a lot that can be learned in attending this show, but its greatest strength is that it never feels like a legal studies class.
Unfortunately, some audience members felt it appropriate to loudly comment on the performances of both Green and his opener Firdi Billimoria during the show. While this naturally impacted pacing, both performers handled the situations with ease- a credit to their professionalism when faced with the unexpected nature of a heckle.
By illustrating back-and-forth conversations between several different characters within the Supreme Court, Mushroom Lady & Me adds a level of theatricality that immerses audiences in an entertaining and educational hour. It’s a worthwhile watch at this year’s comedy festival, finding a balance of humour within an ordinarily serious legal setting.
See our other reviews from the Melbourne International Comedy Festival in the link below
Tickets and Practical Info for Mushroom Lady & Me at MICF 🎟️
Tickets: https://www.comedyfestival.com.au/browse-shows/mushroom-lady-me/
Until 19th April
Ticket Prices: $25.50 – $33.50
Time: 7.00pm| 6.00pm
Venue: House of Maximon
Duration: 50 minutes
Suitable for audiences 15+: Language – occasional coarse language
