“Who the H… is that hillbilly at the piano?” That’s what Ludvig Brandstrup yelled during one of Cirkusrevyen’s first rehearsals. Aage Stentoft the young accompanist had made a few mistakes. Stentoft stood up bowed and quipped “He is the one financing the revue!”
Cirkusrevyen Denmark’s biggest revue is located in Dyrehavsbakken north of Copenhagen. It opened in 1935. It was founded by restaurateur Carl Pehrsson actors Osvald Helmuth Oscar Holst and musician Herman Gellin.
The first Cirkusrevyen shows featured many songs written by Aage Stentoft. He couldn’t read music. He played entirely by ear. He was hired on the condition he buy a share in the revue. He believed in the idea the names and himself. He accepted the offer. His unique talent and financial contribution were key to Cirkusrevyen’s early success.
The revue has been performed annually in a tent in Dyrehavsbakken. The only exception was in 1945. The tent was set up at the site of the burnt-down Forum Copenhagen. That year the electric power was rationed during the war. The decision to move the revue to Copenhagen was a bold one. It kept the show alive during wartime uncertainty.
Cirkusrevyen’s history is rich with iconic performers. Lisbet Dahl Niels Olsen Henrik Lykkegaard and Niels Ellegaard are among its long-standing stars. Ulf Pilgaard was a prominent performer for many years. His final season was originally scheduled for 2020 but was postponed due to the pandemic. Many other prominent Danish performers have graced Cirkusrevyen’s stage. It has become a cherished part of Danish culture.
The 1995 season marked Cirkusrevyen’s 60th anniversary. It featured a special sketch called “Blot til lyst” by Niels Olsen. There was also a medley of classic numbers. One famous sketch featured the “Family Denmark” a satirical depiction of a family’s dynamics. Lisbet Dahl’s improvisation skills during this sketch are legendary. She famously made both Claus Ryskjær and Ulf Pilgaard ad-lib their lines.
Cirkusrevyen continues to entertain. It’s a major cultural institution. It remains a beloved tradition in Denmark’s summer season. It consistently draws large audiences. It is testament to the enduring appeal of revue in a unique setting.