Author Archives: Beth Spencer

Steve Martin: Born Standing Up and the origins of ‘The Jerk’

Posted on September 20, 2011 by Beth Spencer

Just finished reading Steve Martin’s memoir, Born Standing Up: A Comic’s Life (2007). I loved this, not just because it was a fun read but also because it gives a fascinating insight into the twenty-year genesis of one of my … Continue reading →

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Detention is not a ‘solution’: Asylum Seekers, children, and the need to heal trauma not exacerbate it

Posted on August 8, 2011 by Beth Spencer

I wrote this letter to my local politician this morning. Feel free to borrow any parts of it if you too are upset by plans to have children and traumatised refugees sent to offshore detention camps in Malaysia, and wish … Continue reading →

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Vale: The Magic Man, Godfrey Philipp (1936-2011), beloved producer-director of Adventure Island, Magic Circle Club, and much more

Posted on June 20, 2011 by Beth Spencer

I have just heard the sad news that, Godfrey Philipp, co-creator of the award-winning and beloved children’s TV series Adventure Island (1967-1972) and the Magic Circle Club (1965-7), and one of Australia’s most brilliant and pioneering television producers from the 60s and … Continue reading →

Posted in classic tv shows & films, cultural history / memory | Tagged , , , , , , | 21 Comments