PALOMA & JOY

Beautiful show. Gorgeous costuming, amazing lighting, absolutely wonderful sound. Everything about this show was so incredible and so striking, the obvious commentary on racism and superiority in society and workplaces so very well done. Tear jerking as well. All around a beautiful show and I am left speechless

This was difficult for me to rate, because while it is an exceptionally well done show, I just don't think it was the show for me. All three actors were phenomenal (and I have seen numerous shows with them), but the story didn't go to where I thought it was heading, and there were some parts where I wasn't sure what was going on.

There were some laughs, but the meat of this story definitely makes you feel a little uneasy and uncomfortable and makes you think, and while that is definitely the entire point, I just didn't feel that it was my cup of tea. Your mileage may vary, and I would still recommend this, just be wary.

Note about the Gateway theatre - the first couple of rows are using the plastic, folding chairs, but the rest of the theatre has much more comfortable seats. If that matters to you, get in line early!

This show really made me uncomfortable in the best way. I felt a mounting sense of dread in the pit of my stomach that never felt unbearable, as Trevor Schmidt skillfully walks that line between thoughtful and irreverent. The dark overtones of the play were constantly bouyed by moments of levity.

The performances were all solid. Cheryl was a stone cold Paloma, delivering just the right amount of crazed smiling to really show you just how much of a showman her character is -- no matter the cost.

Michelle was the heart as Paloma. Her performance was more subdued but no less charming and definitely more sweet. I think it would be easy to play Paloma as stupid or a pushover, but Michelle masterfully walks a tense line between her conscience and her allegiance to Paloma.

Kristin was a stand out as the white tiger. This role is challenging. It's a bit like the "hello kitty is a British girl not a cat" thing.... the white tiger is absolutely human, but is a tiger. It gives you just enough distance from the uncomfortable exploitation happening in front of you to think that you are immune from sympathizing. But Kristin is too lovely, her voice too delightful, her German accent too charming. She absolutely steals the show, which Paloma would HATE.

I really think this show is worth your time. Trevor Schmidt's work at its best, walking the finest line between absurdity and reality for those of us living in the strangest timeline.

Paloma & Joy is not your average magic show. What starts off with comedy and glitz soon turns darker, exposing the desperation of performers chasing fame and the ugly truths of colonialism beneath the spectacle. The white tiger is more than just a gimmick it becomes a sharp reminder of how easily people are treated as props. The performances kept me laughing one moment and uneasy the next, which made the message land even harder. Strange, clever, and bold, this show is one that sticks with you.

A lengthy opening dance sequence and German monologue started off a show that had so much potential, given that it was the same company as Black Widow Gun Club, but fizzled out into a forgettable and hard to follow fever dream in the first 10 minutes.

Our first #yegfringerec of the festival is PALOMA and JOY from WHIZGIGGLING Productions! This one is full of camp and sass but contains some real darkness brewing beneath the surface. Sparse set design typical of Fringe stages is more than made up for by strong costume design and superb direction as always from Trevor Schmidt. We enjoyed the strong ensemble cast, (featuring Cheryl Jameson as Paloma and Michelle Todd as Joy,) and found Kristin Johnston as Magda to be an absolute shining star. Add PALOMA and JOY to your Fringe list this festival. You won't regret it.