I’ve heard a few stories from women friends about having a baby conceived through IVF. However, I’ve never given much thought to the donor of the sperm, jazz, spunk as it’s variously called. Then last night I saw Spunk Daddy, on as part of Melbourne Fringe at The Butterfly Club, a cozy venue perfect for settling in for an intimate story.

Enter the theatre and a young man, Darby James, is sitting there dressed in a sailor suit next to a ships wheel looking a bit like Bob Denver, the hapless first mate of the S.S. Minnow on 60s TV series Gilligan’s Island.

Spunk Daddy is a sweet, heartfelt and funny cabaret that takes us through the story and vulnerabilities of a young queer man deciding to become a sperm donor. From clicking on a random link on Facebook about donating sperm and grappling with the decision, to writing a letter to an unborn child who may never eventuate and that he will probably never meet, and all the dilemmas in between – which I will not venture into as it could spoil the experience.

Spunk Daddy is a clever, fast paced cabaret show. James leaves no stone unturned and fully exposes the ethical and moral dilemmas of having children or of donating sperm so that someone else can. His willingness to expose his inner thoughts and experience uncensored is refreshing and moving.

The Butterfly Club is quirky, kitsch-crammed parlour with a bar. Go early or stay late for a drink while you peruse the decor, and if you’re looking for a close by spot for a bite to eat, I can recommend Little Ramen Bar, a short walk away.

Spunk Daddy runs until the 22 October, so go on, support Fringe and the arts and grab a ticket here.