These days, satirising the US is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it’s an easy target when playing to progressively-minded audiences. On the other, such a saturated topic comes with baggage, as comedians attempt to find original and impactful ways through the never-ending cycle of controversial transatlantic news.
Sitcom star Kieran Hodgson enters this fray unashamedly with Voice of America, a depiction of how idealistic narratives about the US have twisted and turned over the years. Drawing from a childhood love of US pop culture and a bit part in a major Hollywood film (longer, it is worth noting, than Trump’s notorious cameo in Home Alone 2), he filters the UK gaze of American events to provide a mixed bag of fun impressions and reflections on comedy’s ability – or inability – to pierce the tide of meme-based authoritarianism.
Hodgson’s endearing charm and levity carries the show. Unfortunately, it feels lacking in real satirical edge or cohesion as he opts to scrutinise his initial naivety and seemingly resign some of his idealism rather than stand by any attempts to punch up. For those looking for a light-hearted riff on current global affairs, however, this is an entertaining hour with a talented performer and voice artist.
Kieran Hodgson: Voice of America, Pleasance Courtyard, until 24 Aug (not 23), 9.30pm