Words: Alex Grunberg

Max & Ivan guide the audience through a charming, comfortable, and practiced routine about friendship, fatherhood, and life changes, told with signature banter and endearing chemistry.

The jokes and zingers are bolstered by the obvious amusement Max experiences at Ivan’s antics, as seen through his moments of candid shocked silence and surprised laughter, as well as by the genuine care Ivan has for Max, as seen through his open admiration for his friend and a sweet subtle moment where he quietly fixed Max’s collar onstage. Their history is clear in their ease and honesty with each other that puts the audience at ease as well. 

The comedians revel in the silliness of opposites through a study of their own opposing natures. A study complete with graphs! Max’s personality graph, a highlight of the show, is one of many visual aids projected in the background to enhance stories and anecdotes with personal photos and videos. And as Ivan embraces his role as the riskier of the two, the photos get shockingly personal in delightfully funny ways. 

Expect words of wisdom, Zoom meeting shenanigans, and fatherly advice of varying usefulness. And expect some big surprises by the end of an enjoyable hour of laughs.

Max & Ivan: Life, Choices
Pleasance Courtyard, Above
17.20
8-11, 13-18, 20-25, 27 Aug