Having just stepped out of Carl-Einer Häckner’s surreal comedy show, I have no idea what to think. However, I think the Swede would be pleased with this result, as his goofy, surreal act surely couldn’t prompt anyone into a normal, coherent reaction. In a whirlwind of slapstick, magic and misunderstandings, the ratio of very weak to very funny was probably 50:50, with little material falling in-between. Dryly playing the lovable fool, Häckner swung between drawn-out jokes and some moments of brilliance, including some surprisingly funny manipulation of a banana. A truly odd experience, and one I wouldn’t repeat, although I think most of my fellow audience members would disagree – they were already treating him like the cult-star he may well become.

Gilded Balloon Teviot, 1-27 Aug (not 13), 7.30pm.
tw rating 3/5 | [Sarah Macartney]

Sections: by Sarah Macartney - ED2012 Comedy Reviews - tw rating 3/5 | Tags: Carl-Einar Häckner, Gilded Balloon

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