Filippo Spreafico walks onto the stage with his unmistakably Italian accent and a microphone, and from there the evening can go pretty much anywhere.
Politics, current events, failed relationships, life abroad, personal stories and the occasional completely absurd detour all make their way into Italian Rhapsody. The Italian comedian has a dry, dark sense of humour and a talent for taking everyday observations and pushing them somewhere wonderfully unexpected.
And then there is the piano. Every now and then, the stand-up gives way to a song, with Spreafico sitting down at the piano and performing some wonderfully ridiculous musical numbers. They are completely unexpected and genuinely hilarious, adding another layer to a show that already refuses to stay in one format for very long.
What makes the performance particularly enjoyable is the way the comedian moves between personal stories and broader observations. One moment we are hearing about something that happened in his own life, the next he has somehow arrived at politics, pigeons or some other topic that seemed to have nothing to do with where he started.
The Italian accent certainly adds to the experience, giving his delivery its own rhythm and making some of the punchlines even more enjoyable. But it is the combination of sharp observations, dark humour and complete unpredictability that really makes the show work.
Italian Rhapsody is funny, eccentric and wonderfully unpredictable.
The Tallinn Fringe Festival continues with more comedy, music, and surprises until 18 September.
Author: Hélène
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