Tim Minchin is an Australian comedian, actor, composer, songwriter, pianist and musical director. Born in 1975 in Northampton, Australia, he grows up in Perth, Western Australia, and later attends the University of Western Australia.

Comedy and performance

Minchin is known for combining stand-up comedy with piano performance. His stage persona includes wild hair, heavy eyeliner, bare feet, and a sharply dressed suit and tails, set against a grand piano. He also describes himself as a rock and roll megastar, a label that fits the theatrical style of his performances.

Career highlights

He gains wider attention at the 2005 Edinburgh Fringe Festival, where he wins the Best Newcomer Perrier Comedy Award. His 2005 show Dark Side and 2006 show So Rock are both recorded to CD. His first DVD, So Live, is filmed in Sydney in 2007.

Songs and recurring material

Among his better-known songs are “Inflatable You”, “Rock N Roll Nerd” and “Canvas Bags”. “Canvas Bags” often serves as a finale, with Minchin removing his jacket and leading the audience in an increasingly dramatic environmental pledge in favour of reusable canvas bags instead of plastic ones.

Personal life

He lives in London and has a wife, Sarah. He has two children: a daughter, Violet, and a son, Caspar. He is also associated with Timmy the Dog.