MULTILINGUAL comic Eddie Izzard will be attempting to convince audiences in Leamington that Britain should remain in the European Union – but some of his argument could fall on deaf ears.
The comedian will be perform his ground-breaking Force Majeure 3:3:3 show – in German, French and English – in the Spa Centre’s studio theatre on June 8.
But while he should have no trouble getting his point across for the final performance in English – all 188 tickets for the hour-long show having sold out within days – he may find something of an echo at the earlier shows in German and French respectively.
When the Observer called the Spa Centre only 23 tickets had been sold for the German show, and 28 for the French.
It could be seen as confirmation of the British not being the greatest learners of other languages. Izzard has has long championed the benefits of speaking another tongue.
He said: “I believe we have to tell people that learning another language is actually an adventure. It is tough, it needs work, but what it will do is that it will open up another country to you with all the colours of their people, their food, their customs, their sports and their culture.
“And you will become better human being by going on that adventure.”
Never one to shirk a challenge, he first performed the three times, in thee hours, in three languages show in Normandy on the 70th anniversary of D-Day, in honour of those who fought for freedom and democracy.
The critically acclaimed comic, writer and actor is continuing to perform the 3:3:3 shows around the UK to build support ahead of the EU Referendum in which he is playing a leading role for Stronger In Europe.
The shows will be performed in German at 7pm, French at 8pm and English at 9pm.
Any French or German speakers considering taking young ears along should be warned of the possibility of “strong and imaginative language”.
Visit www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk for tickets, priced £16, and further details.
