An incredible, moving, unique experience that should not, cannot, be missed
It feels almost unjust to give Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight a conventional review, because it operates far beyond the parameters of a conventional show. What starts as a self-help comedy twists and elongates into something really indescribable, more of an experience than a simple theatrical production. Written by Olivier-nominated playwright John Kolvenbach, Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight draws every audience member into the moment, the here, the now. It asks the audience to be present and active, in the creation of art.
Broadway star Jim Ortlieb severs the disconnect between the actor and the audience effortlessly, talking to them as his simultaneous patient, friend, lover, confidante, and equal. Moving from the stage to the seats of the crowd, he asks the audience members to stand up, to clap, to be a part of the performance with him. Everyone stood, or raised their arms if they could not; it was impossible to resist Ortlieb’s charismatic pull. The character, after imploring the audience to participate, grows apologetic of his demands. Even then, he maintains an air of fragile charm. Finding an actor like Jim Ortlieb is a joy, and the show would not have been the same without him.
Kolvenbach’s play, if it can be given the label of merely a play, pushes the boundaries of what can be created between actor and audience. It also seeks to destroy those often-imposed roles. If audience interaction isn’t something you find enjoyable, this show may not be for you, as very few audience members escaped Ortlieb’s gaze or hands. The performance may have benefitted from an additional emphasis on “audience participation” – it was unexpected to be seated and have Ortlieb’s hand on my shoulder! – but it was nonetheless a very moving and fascinating show.
To liken the show to awakening from a dream would not be overdramatic. It can be easy to get lost at the Fringe in the multitude of wonderful and varied shows and performers. Stand Up If You’re Here Tonight claims to offer solutions it then defeatedly – deliberately – backtracks on, but audience members still leave feeling a sense of revitalised joy.
Show Listing:https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/stand-up-if-you-re-here-tonight
LISTINGS INFORMATION
Venue: Dairy Room at Underbelly, Bristo Square
Dates: 5 — 31 August (not 18)
Time (runtime): 4:40pm (60 minutes)
Ticket prices: £14.50 (full price), £13.50 (concession)
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com
Content notes: Heavy audience participation is involved throughout the entirety of the show. Suitable for ages 14+.