one4review | On 18, Aug 2024

Yuriko Kotani returns to The Fringe with her new show; The Meanings of Life. The theme of the show is mainly Yuriko’s unique perspective and observations on certain phrases and words that can have very different meanings in Japanese and the English language.

Yuriko’s cheerful comical style is so endearing. She won the BBC New Comedy Award in 2015. Her unique style is charming and the audience is completely enthralled by her tales of dating, her love of ramen and her less than enjoyable experience on Megabus! Yuriko also touches on more serious topics such as surviving a major earthquake in Japan during a visit to celebrate new year with her family.

There are more touching moments too as Yuriko recalls how her parents’ divorce meant that she had no contact with her father from the age of fifteen. I won’t give away the show’s ending but there is some invited audience participation for suggestions as to how Yuriko might make contact with her father after a number of years. Oh and it involves time travel!

It is a unique show that takes you on a bit of a journey. A very enjoyable and funny trip!

****
Reviewed by Margot
Monkey Barrel Comedy (The Hive)
13.55 (1hr)
Until 25th August