Andrew Sim: “Linda”

Having spent the last few months listening to my friends rave about the upcoming Fringe Festival, because of sheer excitement and the number of hours they’ve spent working on it, I knew I would have to check it out.

The first performance to catch my eye was Andrew Sim’s world premiere of Linda. Not because of the unhinged look in her eyes or the absurd, yet vague, description of the event, but rather because my sister’s name is Linda. That alone was enough to compel me to buy a ticket.

I have fallen out of love with stand-up, so I kept my expectations low. Linda seemed different enough to make it worth my while, and oh boy, different it was!

Sim managed to make a crowd of less than 20 people laugh and accept the absurd character in front of them while going along with all the show’s shenanigans. An incredible blend of theatrics, stand-up, and absurd humor, Linda worked with the crowd better than most stand-up comedians do. That’s not to imply the crowd was easygoing; quite the opposite, as we managed to present quite the challenge. Somehow, awkward answers and audience suggestions only added to the laughter, and Linda used it all to her advantage. Considering how the act was completely improvised, I am tempted to go see the show again, as I am eager to see what Linda would do with a full house.

It was a joy to listen to jokes that didn’t go for the obvious punchline; the material was unpredictable and more thought-provoking than provocative.  I was thoroughly entertained. Often, when watching stand-up comics, I think they want you to laugh with them instead of at them. Linda encourages you to do both. For we are not watching Andrew Sim on stage, we are watching Linda, an old crone with a twisted mind and a voice I can’t even describe. 

The act didn’t overstay its welcome, nor was it too short. While another audience member wished for an extra half hour, my bladder would have to disagree. 

I am aware Baltic audiences can be a bit hesitant to partake in an interactive performance. But to quote Sim, “The more you give, the more you will get out of it.” Keep this in mind if go you to see Linda and be prepared to give. I promise you, it’s worth it. 

Andrew Sim’s next performance is Saturday, 24 August, at 19:00 at Heldeke! I couldn’t imagine a more fitting stage for those deranged Scottish eyes.

Author: Martins