So it turns out Germans can be really funny.  I have to admit I was surprised, but that was my own fault as I was mainly thinking of the stereotypes.  Micheal confronts this head on in his show, breaking down the misconceptions held by many.  He doesn’t stop with just German stereotypes, but continues onto those of different nations.  

Michael Mittermeier is one of Germany’s best selling comedians and his debut show in Edinburgh is co-produced by Eddie Izzard. While a lot of the audience was German on the night I was there, his show had something for everyone.  The premise of the show is a German on safari, but there are very few stories about being on safari with exotic animals.  The majority of stories told concern Michael’s safari through life, what he observes on his travels around the world and the differences he sees between people of different nationalities. He tackles some tough topics like the war and Hitler with ease and reminds us that Hitler did give the world one good thing: autobahns (motorways), Germany being one of the few countries that has no speed limits allowing everyone with fast cars to test them out.

Micheal is charismatic and full of energy.  Right from the start he had the audience laughing at how bad his impression of a Scottish accent is.  I found his show hilarious and at times my face hurt from laughing so much. It’s an outstanding example of observational comedy, insightful and exuberant. 

Michael Mittermeier: A German on Safari

Pleasance Courtyard (Baby Grand)

Until 27 August (not 20), 21:30