Derek Mitchell identifies as Dutch. He might have been born in America, but that’s a minor detail. A student of the world and lover of culture, Double Dutch examines the societal stereotypes we subscribe to in order to reveal what connects us. Hysterically funny and unpredictable, Mitchell is truly one-of-a-kind.
Hysterically funny and unpredictable, Mitchell is truly one-of-a-kind
Donning traditional Dutch dress and wooden clogs, Mitchell keeps the audience laughing from start to finish. After buttering us up by poking fun at himself, he swiftly dives deep into a Dutch persona of viral fame. Far from a mocking parody, Mitchell’s persona is a love-letter to The Netherlands, educating the audience on their idiosyncrasies and history of the language. He builds on this material by drawing comparisons between English, American and Dutch characteristics which makes for hilarious and original observational comedy. What elevates this above most jokes of the same ilk is Mitchell’s attention to detail. He is a master of observation, holding a magnifying glass to the characteristics of different cultures and highlighting their quirks, pointing out both the sublime and the ridiculous.
He switches between accents throughout the show with swift, rapid agility, transforming himself into a new character each time. Mitchell’s impersonations are second-to-none and are peppered throughout the performance, delighting the audience every time a new one is revealed. He also demonstrates a brilliant ability to riff and improvise, which makes for spontaneous and electric moments. It would be plausible if Mitchell had studied clowning, as he places his full energy and attention onto the audience, reading the temperature of the room with great sensitivity and responding accordingly. In saying this, he is uninhibited on stage, which makes for an extremely charismatic performance.
Beyond the funny, Mitchell makes poignant comment on life as an immigrant, constantly feeling the need to make everyone comfortable and assimilate. Themes of identity and belonging are prominent in the show, and ground the comedy in a very real and salient issue.
Double Dutch is a very special hour of comedy that highlights the experiences we share across boarders and our constant search for meaning. What is truly clear is how laughing at ourselves can bring us together.
