Didn’t Hurt

Tonic Records—School of Contemporary Dancers

The program describes this show as a story about a tough upbringing, but it is so much more than that. Certainly it is about the effects child abuse can have, and the child having to deal with that as their life goes on, but perhaps unintentionally it is also about toxic masculinity, how it spreads, and how children learn. This show very clearly spells out exactly how a parent’s actions can rub off on their child, and how the cycle has the potential to continue well into each generation.

The performer seemed to struggle to tell portions of his story, and while generally it is inadvisable to dive that deeply, he was able to hold himself together. Something that was outrageously brave, and incredible to watch. It could use some focus, as he often segued into a lecture more than storytelling. Both can be good, but as a performance they need to be distinct.

Arden Pruden

Spotlight: The Show With No Actors

Shelby Bond—Tom Hendry Warehouse

Saw this because I was curious about how he did it. Despite my best efforts to avoid the light, I was spotlighted as wardrobe wrangler, which is at least in my wheelhouse. The story unfolds as a sweet romance, highly directed by Shelby Bond’s voice over and instructions via headsets to the two leads, who do have limited opportunities to improvise a few lines. Brave experiment, gently done as the intent is not to embarrass anyone. It was a lot of fun being on stage, but perhaps less fun to be in the audience?

Audra Lesosky

A Man Walks Into A Bar

Theatre by the River—The Cinematheque

I was curious about the use of “waitress” as a sexist term that no longer belongs in regular discourse. It all makes sense in the end.

The show takes a while to get going so the first half dragged for a bit. Once you’re over the hump, you’re on the edge of your seat. The show sold-out early so pre-order if you want to catch this one.

And here’s a PSA from me: if you’re ever in the situation where you think you may be in trouble, call 911—you need the police. Texting your roommate isn’t going to help you if things go south fast.

Be safe everyone.

Ray Yuen

The Open House

Snakeskin Jacket—Tom Hendry Warehouse

Randomly saw The Open House because I couldn’t get into a couple of shows that were on my list. Incredibly well acted piece (though perhaps a bit uneven) with crackling dialogue. I usually avoid shows presenting existing pieces at the Fringe, but I’m glad I accidentally saw this.

Audra Lesosky

Graceland

Shoestring Players—Planetarium

Two Elvis super fans compete to be first in line for the grand opening of Graceland, the famous home of the legendary King of Rock and Roll. The characters had an entertaining arc from hating to understanding and supporting each other. Two talented women from different generations complimented each other well. It was touching and funny and everything you would expect a solid two person play with strong writing and acting to be. Worth seeing, but if you are a die hard Elvis fanatic it is not even optional.

Adam Kirk

Commando: The Radio Play

Ditch Water Theatre—Centennial Concert Hall – Rehearsal Hall

A brilliant blending of 40s style live radio serials and a parody of the Arnold Schwarzenegger 1985 action flick, Commando. The voice actors were remarkable – three playing every role – and the Foley artist was restrained perfection because they could easily have upstaged but never did. The voice actor playing Arnie was better than Arnie – like Arnie if he’d ever taken an acting lesson. Amazing: go see it.

Audra Lesosky

Marcus Ryan – ¿Hablas Inglés?

World Laughs—The Cinematheque

I can be a stand-up comic!

Ryan’s stories and misadventures are fun and comical but as he told the stories, I started thinking to myself, “hey, that kind of thing has happened to me on vacation! And I have funny pictures, tell a good story, and I’m a whiz at PowerPoint. I can do this!

Wait.

Ryan’s show is sold out. Would anyone come to see my show? Maybe. Maybe not. I don’t know. But
in the meantime, you should just go to Marcus Ryan’s show. It’s a good time.

Ray Yuen

Letters

Parachuting Camel Productions—Alto – Portage Place

Letters is a Fringe show of epic scale. With a cast of ten phenomenal actors clearly dedicated to their craft and period accurate costumes and props, this feels more like a professional production than the average Fringe show. Prepare to be moved to tears! Be warned, there are some heartbreaking moments brought to staggering realism by actors who know what they are doing. A family is torn apart by World War 2, and the story is told by letters sent back and forth from Canada and Italy. The Christmas scene is particularly good, as well as a haunting monologue about Dieppe. Letters is a touching play that pays respects to the fallen soldiers without glorifying the horrors of war. See this show. It is an essential part of Winnipeg Fringe 2019!

Adam Kirk

HUNKS V

H.U.N.K.S.—Comedy at Wee Johnny’s

Loud, crude, rude, ludicrous and funny. This show definitely isn’t for everyone but if like seeing four people yell rude and wacky jokes at each other, you’re at the right place.

Ray Yuen

Opera Mouse

Sisterscene—Kids Venue: MTYP – Mainstage

Melanie Gall is back with a hilarious musical puppet show for kids. The audience was enthralled! Participation was a big part of the show with kids encouraged to ask questions and contribute ideas, which led to some highly entertaining interactions. The show is an educational introduction to the world of opera music in an accessible way for children and their parents. My four year old was so impressed at the end of the grand finale song he stood on his chair and shouted with glee “That was AMAZING!” I saw Melanie sing last year and was so impressed I had to go see her perform again this year and hope to see her keep coming back with more new material for years to come.

Adam Kirk