Linus Karp: Was Hit with an Umbrella - Review

What to watch at Fringe! A review of Linus Karp: Was Hit with an Umbrella. 

It's safe to say that when thinking about funny topics to create a Fringe show about, hate crimes probably aren't particularly high on the list. How do you take an upsetting and traumatic event and make it entertaining and, crucially, funny? "Linus Karp Was Hit with an Umbrella" manages to do just that.

Awkward Prods, who also created "Gwyneth Goes Skiing" and "Diana: The Untold and Untrue Story" are known for queer, celebratory, absurd theatre, but this is something quite different; in July 2024, Linus and his boyfriend (now husband), Joseph, were out together in Soho, when Linus was attacked by a man who hit him across the head with an umbrella. The man was chased and caught by Joseph, who was able to detain him until the police arrived, before Linus and Joseph were finally reunited and went to hospital. Awkward Prods show, "Linus Karp Was Hit with an Umbrella", tells the story of the attack and the aftermath.

This is of course a difficult subject matter and a lot of it is deeply moving; Linus explores the occurrence in detail, from the initial attack through to the legal process, examining the effect the attack had on him and his mental health, the reaction of others when they learned what had happened, and the process of beginning to heal. Despite this, though, this show still finds a way to be incredibly funny.

Linus is incredibly quick witted and sharp, finding the humour in the most horrendous of circumstances and finding increasingly absurd ways to mention Soho Theatre throughout. His charisma and charm is infectious as he cheekily responds to crowd interactions with an exasperated look and a quip as they read out comments left on his social media following the attack, his comedic timing is perfect, and the balance of satire, absurdity, hope and warmth is absolutely spot on. There's puns, a mock trial, music, and a whole host of incredible moments which are sure to stay with you.

Sure, there are moments which are difficult to see and hear, but there are moments of queer joy, too. This is a beautifully camp, highly entertaining, and deeply uplifting show which doesn't shy away from identity in the face of hate but welcomes it with humour and warmth. Without a doubt one of the best shows I've ever seen, I cannot recommend this enough.

You can watch "Linus Karp Was Hit with an Umbrella" until the 30^th of August at Underbelly, Edinburgh Fringe.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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