Side Effects

This show was unfortunately bad on pretty much every level and I did not enjoy it. I don’t want to be overly harsh and dissect it in too much detail but to summarize: the plot was so thin and made almost no sense (especially for how long the show is), the scenes and musical numbers started getting repetitive and did not explore any other dimension to the main character’s ethical struggle other than “I feel bad about this”, the acting was strained at best, the music was out of time and off-key, and the overall arc of the story ended up coming off as anti-science but didn’t delve into why.

I was actually really excited for a show that explored the trade-offs and complexities of animal testing for human progress. I think most reasonable people dislike the thought of animal testing and know there are alternatives that should be explored more, but without the show even setting up why animal testing was the only path for this particular scientific advancement, the critique didn’t make any sense and the whole journey seemed a bit pointless. 😢

Leaves an lasting impression! This is what you get when you have a creative story, awesome music, captivating actors/singers, and puffies too! This needs to be on a big stage! Loved it!

I'm not sure if the story actually really made sense or sent the message it intended to. Lots of weird things were thrown in that really distracted from what the story was trying to convey. Actors were fun and they did a good job so it was sad to see the play wasn't really thought out. The description is not a good representation of the show

Storyline and comedic timing is amazing! The actors are all so skilled in their acting performance. I wish vocally it would be stronger, but other than that - the moral of the story and the puppets leave a lasting positive impression on me!

This play was so captivating that the time flew by, very well presented by skilled actors and creative team! Loved the energy and the seriousness, and the puppets, of course. Great job guys and gals!

This musical was clever, funny, dark, and very well put together. The characters and songs were quirky and emotional. And there were puppets! They were a perfect blend of creepy and adorable. Such a great show overall.

Side Effect is an emotional ride through the eyes of a young woman having an ethical debate within herself... And the emotions that I felt while watching that internal debate were everything I wanted.

This performance is laced with humour and emotional turmoil, which, honestly, is what I love about Fringe shows. Take a chance and join Haven on the quest to figure out what's right.

Dark and yet fun styled humor that simply ran just a little long for my liking. The team did great work and I am sure there is a target audience who will eat this up.

I remember this artistic team from when the did MOO a few years ago. They create work with a strong commentary on our social ecosystem and particularly on how we treat animals. This show received the same treatment. It is heartfelt and funny. The performers did a great job. The downsides: the sightlines in the venue are not great past row 2. Get there early to get front or aisle seats. I also think the show is a little long at 90 minutes. But I would still recommend seeing this one!

Clever, funny, and emotionally charged! What a great new musical by a local playwright!! A black comedy about very important social issues regarding the moral injuries of animal testing, but told with such grace, heart, care and wonderful puppeteering!

You will both laugh and cry!!

Often in life, people are challenged to put themselves first. Cathexis Theatre’s original musical Side Effects asks the question: How far is too far to go when you’re looking out for yourself?

Side Effects is set in an absurd town in which people are entirely fixated with their pets. The main character, Haven, is tasked with participating in animal testing in order to find the cure to a disease that runs in her family.

The show is filled with a dark edged style of humor that supports the message of the story. Cast members were able to portray stereotypical satiric archetypes that had a layer of depth that provided complex perspectives on the ethical matters dissected. The design choices added to world building, actors wore colourful highlights in their hair emphasizing the vain attitudes of the characters while also speaking to the jarring reality of animal testing in the cosmetic industry. Side Effects’ score was fun and well sung and clearly communicated the story.

Cathexis Theatre’s Side Effects provides a strong commentary on the world of animal testing and gives audiences a good time and a resonant theme throughout.