This lecture analyses the earliest Australian satirical program, The Mavis Bramston Show, and demonstrates the link between live revue theatre and television variety programs over a long period, focussing on June Salter, Barry Creyton and Garry McDonald. It presents an analysis of the work of Nick Tate and his interpretation of George Johnston's Davey in the landmark tv drama series, My Brother Jack. It explores the social realism of Marian and the contribution of the young Helen Morse to this important, transformative genre of television. This video-recorded Lecture is accompanied by a set of curated television clips from the tv programs under discussion, especially prepared for the Lecture at the National Film and Sound Archive.