Mucking in to raise a laugh

The comics will generate laughs and cash at a fundraiser to help overworked midwives, writes Sharu Delilkan
Comedian and Radio Hauraki DJ Dean Butler didn't hesitate when he was asked to perform at Mucking In For the Midwives.
The Pakuranga resident says, "When Michelle A Court told me that they were organising an event to commemorate my mate Scott Blanks' late daughter, Kate, I said put me down [for it]."
Mucking In is a show to support and thank the midwives who cared for Classic Comedy owners Scott and Bridget Blanks when their daughter was stillborn in February.
Top comedians giving their time to the cause include Jeremy Corbett, Michele A'Court, Brendhan Lovegrove, Te Radar, Irene Pink, Jeremy Elwood, Paul Ego and Justine Smith.
"The idea to equip the Women's Assessment Unit, which is based in the old part of the hospital, came after we gave them our flowers," says Scott Blanks.
"They said, 'No one ever leaves us flowers'. We realised then how under-appreciated these midwives are."
Scott says he and his wife noticed how understaffed the unit was and that the midwives' current staff room was so badly equipped.
"At first I thought it was the place where you hung your coat. It was no bigger than a hospital bedroom.
"During their breaks and any downtime all the midwives have is a dreary, ill-equipped staffroom with uncomfortable, mismatched furniture. There isn't even a dishwasher to keep the cups clean or decent coffee-making facilities.
In fact, they have to go about seven or eight floors down to get a real coffee.
"We feel it's the least we can do considering the long shifts and stressful situations they have to deal with on a daily basis."
Scott says the aim of the show is to raise at least $5000-$6000 "to make the staffroom more comfortable for the overworked midwives. Among the things we hope to buy are a comfortable couch, a flat-screen TV and a coffee machine."
Butler, whose last stand-up gig was three years ago, says it's an fitting way to celebrate Kate.
"Scott and I have spent so many good times touring together. We've had lots of laughter, even in the event of tragedy."
Mucking In For the Midwives, The Classic, Queen St, Sept 4, 8pm. Tickets are sold out. Extra show yet to be confirmed.