Laughing boy: Jackson Hand has jumped into the state Class Clowns grand final after winning the Geelong heat.
By Erin Pearson
OCEAN GROVE wannabe funnyman Jackson Hand is one witty teenager.
The 17-year-old recently took a break from his year 12 studies at St Joseph’s College to win the Geelong heat of Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Class Clowns.
Now he has his sights on the big stage.
Previous Class Clowns have included now-professional comedians such as Josh Thomas and Joel Creasey.
Jackson entered the competition on the advice of a friend who noted his talent for gags.
“I very much try to put in a little witty comment here and there every day,” Jackson said.
“It’s always been who I am but I never thought this would all happen so fast.
“Now I’ve done Class Clowns and had a taste of it I’ve realised how fun comedy is and it’s all I can think about.”
Jackson said his experience had prompted him to begin plotting a new career path.
“My other option is to go to university and study accounting but that’s getting a back seat just for now.”
Jackson listed comedians Tim Minchin and Arj Barker as inspirations.
“They both use a great play on words and I enjoy twisting words around, so I’d love to be like them one day.”
Jackson said he used his friends to test material but denied they tired of his puns and punch lines.
“I’m lucky I have good friends who’ll either laugh or abuse me for my jokes,” he laughed.
“Anyone can tell a joke but to get the delivery right is really the difference.
“That’s the key.”
Jackson will compete in a Class Clowns national grand final in Melbourne on April 20.
