At the start of her show Katia Kvinge explains the combination of cultures which has helped make her the person she is today. With Norwegian parentage on one side, American on the other and spells living in Scotland, England and the States it quickly becomes clear that the character comedian has a deep well from which to draw inspiration. The rest of this energetic and enjoyable show bears this out.
There is an unhinged vigour which unites the many characters Kvinge launches into
The ambitious aim of the show is summed up in its title with Kvinge aiming to pack 140 characters into her performance. She cheekily claims to have packed a significant amount of these into a high-energy opening dance and after that it’s down to business.
A bright early section contrasts the difference between the Norwegian and American sides of Kvinge’s family – Scandinavian introversion versus Yankee exuberance. Her cripplingly shy Miss Norway is a highlight but after that things get decidedly more energetic.
There is an unhinged vigour which unites the many characters Kvinge launches into. It’s something she’s very good at but, accents aside, makes it tricky to distinguish some of the individual characters. They are more like variations on a theme, rather than fully realised personalities.
Kvinge’s range of accents is a strength as are the impressions she uses throughout the show - the latter mainly being drawn from the world of movies. In particular, a conversation between Kristen Stewart and Keira Knightley, is exceptional. However many also get lost in the frantic, rapid fire delivery of the show and at one or two points the act runs the risk of impression fatigue.
This is a minor point though and doesn’t get in the way of a performance that showcases Kvinge as a naturally very funny comedian with a great future ahead.
