I Ain't No Ingenue but I (used to) Sing Like One
Dreams don’t always happen when - or how - we planned. But sometimes they come back around... even after 30 years. The creator of A Closet Diva’s Diary returns with a new musical revue about second chances, aging out of ingenue roles, and finding your way back to the spotlight. And seriously... WTF is an ingenue anyway?
Very appropriate musical choices, well sung. An absolutely vulnerable, relatable and inspirational story and personal triumph. Well done, definitely recommend.
Singing was mostly excellent. Story was a very open sharing of her life. Good laughs.
A piece of Christie Mawer exists in all of us...
Whether you dare to dream, you're scared to take that jump into the deep end or you're not quite sure what your path yet is... whether you're just starting your journey, or THINK you're journey is over... this story, this show... is for you! Christie Mawer reminds us we are all human navigating this unpredictable world.
Without a doubt my Fringe Pick for 2026. "I Ain't No Ingenue but I (used to) Sing Like One" has as a piece that speaks to the spark within us that we all have felt one time or another in our lives.
Taking us on a journey of her trials & triumphs, high's & lows navigating the wacky journey of being an artist... being a dreamer...
My belly laughed. My eyes swelled up. My mind pondered. Simply put... just do yourself a favour & see this show! SEE THIS SHOW!
Also... WTF IS AN INGENUE ANYWAY? Get your ticket & take the ride to find out what it means to you! ❦
Thank you Christie for bringing your story to the stage. Thank you for reminding me to NEVER stop DREAMING. ❤️
The story telling, the singing, the laughter... What doesn't this show have?! I thoroughly enjoyed being in the audience for this one. There were some relatable moments, some very funny moments and everything in between. I may not have known what the fuck an Ingenue was before, but I know now that a witch is far more fun.
Hilariously relatable and what a voice! A seamless, inspirational story of life with a witty twist. Grab a friend and go see this show!!
Christie Mawer has a gift for storytelling (& singing!). She shares her story of her theatrical journey. From finally getting to start her theatrical training at 29 to rediscovering it in her 50s, I can’t help but empathize. She discusses not only how her voice has changed, but also how her life has changed. Thoroughly engaging, very entertaining, and lots of variety of song - including some opera! Director Jason Duiker steps in for a few well timed ambiant moments and pianist Gary Gilham keeps the musical accompaniment supportive and entertaining.
Proof that dreams and theatre are not only for the young. This is a heartfelt rendering of pursuing your life goals, no matter your age, while overcoming obstacles, even if they were self imposed.
See my review of this worthy production ! https://lucyhainesca.wordpress.com/2026/08/16/fringe-review-its-never-too-late-to-make-dreams-come-true/
It’s more fun to not be an ingenue
This original production of I Ain’t No Ingenue but I (used to) Sing Like One was a fabulous representation that young women don’t always have all the fun. Christie Mawer, Jason Duiker, and Gary Gilham put on splendid performances with their songs, acting, and intricate props.
Mawer took to the stage with her beautiful, operatic voice. Her phenomenal rendition of “Think of Me” from Phantom of the Opera was an outstanding piece. She perfectly executed the high notes of the role. She provided the audience with a therapy session that let the audience feel welcome in the space.
The show's live pianist, Gilham, created a beautiful soundtrack including songs from The Sound of Music, Bye Bye Birdie, and Into the Woods. His talent shined bright as he perfectly executed each note.
Duiker provided some comedy to the production with his amazing chemistry with Mawer. His acting was very campy, and elevated the show. Every scene he partook in was taken to another level by his relentless spark. Duiker was always acting, especially with his terrific body language.
The show's use of props was superb, each song had its own unique piece that helped establish the concept. The seamless incorporation of the pieces was beautifully done by Mawer and Duiker, who helped make sure that everything was ready when needed.
I Ain’t No Ingenue but I (used to) Sing Like One was a splendid show. You could tell that Mawer, Duiker, and Gilham put a lot of time and energy into the production. It was a dazzling performance that I highly recommend watching.