An Emerging Talent in Icelandic Stand-up Comedy
Stefán Ingvar Vigfússon has become a prominent figure in the Icelandic comedy scene, known for his involvement with comedy groups such as VHS and his solo performances. Educated at the Iceland University of the Arts (LHÍ) in the Playwriting program, Stefán has honed his skills in both writing essays and plays, showcasing his diverse talents. He recently appeared as a guest on the radio show “Mannlega þátturinn” on Rás 1, where he revealed details about his new stand-up show, “Stefán Ingvar Conquers the Business World,” to hosts Gunnar Hansson and Guðrún Gunnarsdóttir.
Childhood and Cultural Challenges in Denmark
Growing up in the Vesturbær district of Reykjavík, Stefán moved to Aarhus, Denmark, at the age of eleven. However, his time in Denmark was not as enriching as he had hoped. “I found it so disheartening that I actively tried to forget Danish when I returned home,” Stefán admits. It wasn’t until later in his stay that he began to find his footing. “I went in with a negative mindset and decided on the first day of school that everyone was an idiot. I didn’t really make friends until three months later, and by then, it was awful to move back home.”
Today, Stefán considers returning to Denmark for further studies. “Aarhus is an amazing city, and I have a lingering desire to pursue a master’s degree there. It’s an incredibly nice city with a vibrant cultural life, it’s beautiful, and everything is within walking distance,” he reflects.
Aspiring to Be an Indispensable Genius
At the age of nine, Stefán began writing poetry and short stories, sparking his dream of becoming a writer. By twelve, he had written a poetry collection titled “Fallen Trees.” “I went on Google, found a picture of withered trees, put it on the cover, and printed it. I was always planning to take it to a publisher,” he laughs.
Stefán spent six years in high school before enrolling in the Playwriting program at the Iceland University of the Arts. His goal was to become a genius, “to become indispensable in Icelandic cultural life.”
Grateful for the Breakup That Led to Therapy
However, his ambition was tempered when he entered therapy while still at university, an experience he considers a blessing. “I went to therapy at the Iceland University of the Arts, and a lot of the genius complex was washed away,” he recalls. “I was 22 when I had the fortune of going through a breakup that accelerated my journey through therapy. I think if it had happened at a different time, or not at all, it might not have happened, or it would have been a slow misery. It was a stroke of luck.”
Debut Stand-Up Performance and Audience Connection
Stefán was introduced to stand-up comedy as a teenager through his friend Þórður Ingi. While in school, he took a course on the staging of personal narratives and decided his project would be a stand-up performance. His first show started off rocky, which turned out to be fortunate. “I received a great gift when I had a poor-quality microphone, so when I walked onto the stage, the mic cord fell out. Everyone laughed a lot, so I immediately had the audience on my side,” he shares.
The show was performed several times at Mengi, then traveled to Ísafjörður, and that’s when momentum began to build. His latest show is set to premiere at the Sykursalur next Thursday, with a focus on the business world.
Reflections and Future Aspirations
Stefán Ingvar Vigfússon’s journey from a young poet to a celebrated comedian highlights the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in the arts. His ability to transform personal challenges into comedic material resonates with audiences and showcases his unique perspective on life. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Stefán remains committed to leaving a lasting impact on Icelandic culture.
Stefán’s story is a testament to the power of humor and self-reflection. His willingness to embrace his vulnerabilities and share them with the world not only entertains but also inspires others to confront their own challenges. As Stefán takes the stage with his latest show, audiences can expect a blend of wit, insight, and a touch of the unexpected—qualities that have become his signature in the Icelandic comedy scene.