I have to admit, I was a little reluctant before this show. Improvisation isn’t usually my thing, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. By the end, I was laughing so much that I actually wished it had lasted longer.
The concept is simple, but the execution is brilliant. At the beginning, a QR code appears on screen and the audience can submit different scenarios. Those suggestions then pop up during the show, and Erki Aule, Tarvo Krall and Rauno Kaibiainen have to create a scene from whatever has just appeared.
And they really do make it up as they go. No existing language is allowed, so everything is created through sounds, emotions, body language and gibberish. The result is wonderfully ridiculous, with scenes that can suddenly become dramatic, romantic or completely absurd.
The pianist, Madis Kreevan, sitting in the corner, deserves a special mention. The music is also completely improvised, following the action like a theatre soundtrack, becoming more dramatic, funny or intense depending on what is happening on stage. Mario Saarik does the same with the lighting, accentuating the scenes and adding another layer to the performance.
What makes it so good is how well the whole thing works together. The three actors, pianist and lighting technician constantly react to one another, and somehow the result feels incredibly well orchestrated despite absolutely nothing being planned.
I went in thinking improvisation wasn’t really my thing. I came out having had a great laugh and wanting more. I’d say that’s a pretty successful conversion.
Improv in Gibberish is a recurring format at IMPEERIUM Improteater, though there is not another Fringe show scheduled. However, their other recurring formats can be seen throughout the year in Estonian and English. The Tallinn Fringe Festival continues until 18 September.
Author: Hélène
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