"Learning to be French through comedy!" -New York Times
The stand-up comedy act by the one and only Olivier Giraud is gaining full attention among tourists and French natives as the show is presented 100% en anglaise on how to fit in with Parisians. For one humor-filled hour, the French comedian uses his silly accent imitations and delicate criticisms to tease the Parisians. Although it is a bit exaggerated, Giraud's comedy uncovers the Parisian way of life from the restaurant waiters to the taxi drivers. Being the entertainment-needed teen that I am, I would definitely recommend this show to people who are willing to spend a laughter-filled evening. With its convenient location in the center of Paris, the show allows viewers to sit back, relax and enjoy the show's humorous portrayal of the cultural differences between the French and the rest of the world.
Here are a few of his notes on how to act like a Parisian in...
1. A Restaurant
Giraud admits Parisians may be rude most of the time, but he highlights the fact that they can be especially rude in a restaurant. Unless the place is a five-star, over-the-top luxurious diner, a non-Parisian must be accustomed to the shouts and stiffness of the waiters. He pokes fun of the often seen bald, sweaty waiters with mustaches covered with baguette crumbs. His solution to fit in is to be stiff as well and offers the choice of shouting back to the waiter.
2. Fashion
Paris is known for its fashionistas and many runways. The City of Lights is filled with tall well groomed Parisians all dressed in black, grey, and white. During the show, everyone chuckled as they agreed with the fact that the only colors seen in Paris was black, grey and white. The clothes of these colors are most often seen with pairs of skinny jeans and most importantly, a scarf. (After a week in Paris, I was amazed with the fact that a scarf could change a whole outfit.)
3. A Taxi
Olivier depicts the taxi drivers as sneaky people who try to get the most from their passengers by driving through the longest course to a destination. His brilliant acting closely portrays the slyness of the French driver and the gullibility of the non-Parisian in the passenger seat. Sadly, the comedian wasn't able to offer a clear guide to encountering the taxi drivers, but he sure did show the audience what to expectWant to learn more on how to become a Parisian? Make sure to keep this comedian in mind as you plan your next trip to the City of Love. (Spoiling the whole show would ruin the fun.) This funny and culturally enriching show will make you feel like you have spent your whole life surrounded by true Parisians.