August 17, 2024 
EdFringe Review
In answer to Olaf Falafel’s question yes, at least one person has actually woven a Sigourney – and that is, of course, absurdist comic, Olaf Falafel.Absurd is probably the best way to describe his performance. The lightest of light entertainment, Falafel’s show is full of silliness. He judges his audience to be so silly that they’ll enjoy a skit from one of his recent kid’s TV shows – and he’s spot on, they find it hilarious. Indeed, one of Falafel’s greatest strengths is his excellent knowledge of his own audience, leading to a confident and well-received performance. He has brilliant stage presence, aided by an excellent voice that’s somehow both loud and commanding yet easy-listening at the same time – this man was made to entertain. Perhaps the most unique element of the show is his constant integration of audience participation. He has the audience constantly on their toes playing games, singing songs - even playing characters in his skits. You’re not just watching the show, you’re part of it and all the memories that come with that (including winning some physical prizes). Falafel even greets the audience before they enter, warming them up and getting to know people, a smart way to set up later crowd work. It’s a brilliant way to engage a room and works nicely in this fairly intimate Fringe venue.The other impressive aspect of Falafel’s show is the variety that he brings to the performance. As an author and illustrator with his own kid’s TV show, Falafel has a lot of skills to bring the table and this hour really showcases this. Beyond making jokes – which are frequently puns – he integrates visual jokes involving his own art, amusing songs he’s created, video he’s made of his previous antics, even a little mime. He cleverly integrates a slideshow into his performance to showcase some of these aspects, complementing his stage work almost similar to how you might use VTs to illustrate certain points in a magazine TV show…. Click Here For Review