Ari Eldjárn @ Heroes, Monkey Barrel

Ari Eldjárn presents some big tales from a small country

Review by James McColl | 14 Aug 2017

Nordic comic Ari Eldjárn offers us a glimpse into the life of a man who is in constant flux, culturally and geographically as a foreigner now living in the UK. It seems that because of its size and relatively small population, Iceland is the bud of many Nordic jokes. Eldjárn is wise to them all, indulging his Nordic brethren and returning the stereotyping in kind.

Over a tight hour of stand-up, Eldjárn breaks down the nuanced differences from neighbouring Nordic county to country. The subtle differences between Norway, Denmark, Iceland and Sweden, from language to sense of humour, are something that he makes fascinating for UK audiences. But he can only sustain this until about the 30-minute mark, though stories about Icelandic airlines, and the current Nordic Noir TV fads, do help to bolster the hour a little.

Eldjárn is an endearing and likeable presence though, and overall Pardon my Icelandic is an enjoyable way to spend an hour.


Ari Eldjárn: Pardon My Icelandic, Heroes at Monkey Barrel (Basement), until 27 Aug (not 23), 1.40pm, £5/PWYW

http://www.theskinny.co.uk/festivals/edinburgh-fringe/comedy