Best of 2006: Tim Minchin

Dear Tim,

We know, like most performers, you read your press. We now also know that as a perfectionist, despite the bladder-bursting queues, the million of stars dispersed throughout your coverage, unbelievable hype and a rarefied position as the darling of the festival, you're not quite the happy camper. You're still bitching about the one-star review you got in the Guardian last year - it hurts to this day. You know, the one that said you'd be no good without your piano? Well Tim, it's a tough industry, and a thick skin - surely taken for granted from an Aussie with weird hair? - should be a prerequisite. We all know journalists working for such publications are under severe pressure to prove themselves, maybe see things that others don't (or that aren’t there). Perhaps in dismissing your act, he made an unintentionally salient point about the strengths of your show. An ability to combine musical virtuosity with keen comedy reflections is something most people don't have in their armoury. Your observations are wry and witty, but you make them really funny by giving them their own soundtrack. You should be proud of that - I'll never read Prufrock without fondly thinking of my nether regions again! Please accept four gracious stars from us, and enjoy your festival.

Fest Magazine x