The (Un)Official (Un)Researched History of Manitoba

VoLto—Asper Centre for Theatre and Film-U of W

A pre-show slide deck of provincial landmarks, famous potholes, and other distinctly Manitoban sights sets the tone for this proudly parochial sketch comedy. What begins as a faux-academic history lecture quickly devolves into a series of ridiculous Heritage Minutes, chronicling everything from the ancient dino karate wars of this land to the epic dance battle of Jean-Guy-Alanis-Morisette-Saint-Boniface against the British.

Packed with local in-jokes ranging from genuinely hilarious to gloriously groan-worthy, the sketches vary in strength but never in silliness. Energetic performances and playful sound design keep the momentum rolling, even when a joke misses its mark.

Locals will delight in discovering how our provincial ancestors invented socialism, tourism, and Pizza Pops. Visitors, on the other hand, may feel many of the references flying well over their heads. For those in on the joke, this is a thoroughly entertaining celebration of Manitoba’s peculiar sense of humour and misplaced pride

Ashley Frantik