one4review | On 16, Aug 2013

***

The trigger for this show was the death of Ivan Hansen’s neighbour who lived in an adjoining flat in Hansen’s home city of Copenhagen. Despite living in such close proximity, they did not know each other. He considered what a sad reflection this is on modern city life.

Hansen is joined on stage by Finnish mime artist Pekka Raikonen as he narrates stories mostly taken from his childhood. Using the simplest of props but a complex sound track of well-known pop music tracks and sound effects they create a number of well-coordinated action scenes. The emphasis is on comedy and it does work. Particularly effective was a fishing trip that almost ended in disaster.

Ivan Hansen is an engaging personality and he does encourage audience inter-reaction to break down the barriers that separate us. A warm, feel good show if some of the action was somewhat contrived. When the show finishes, there is an opportunity to join the two performers on stage for a drink.

Reviewed by Ben

Underbelly Cowgate; 61

1 to 25 August 2011 (not 13)

18.45 – 19.45

Fringe Programme Page Number: 305