The Fabulist

THE FABULIST traces the midpoint in the life of an important trail-blazing folklorist. Helen Creighton has devoted her life to collecting and preserving the songs of her beloved native Maritime Canada. Unfortunately (or is it?), the songs are equaled only by the fascinating tales related to her by many people she meets through her travels. But what is Helen to do with all of the stories? Can she find a way to give these intriguing narratives the focus and audience they are crying out for? If she tries, will she ever be taken seriously?
Sort
Category
5 ★
5
4 ★
2
3 ★
0
2 ★
1
1 ★
0
0 ★
0
Recommendations
9 reviewer would recommend!
Reactions
See It Again ♻️ 7
Mind Blown 🤯 1
Not My Cup of Tea ☕️ 1
2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 10, 2026, 7:20 p.m.
☕️
Not My Cup of Tea

The Fabulist is a good tribute to Helen Creighton, with certain educational value. As someone who went in not knowing who Helen Creighton was, I definetly left with a better understanding of who she was and her impact.

There are a few aspects of the show that did not land for me. The writing often relied on exposition. While I understand it situates the audiences in the timeline of her career, there are other, more creative opportunities that have potential to carry the story through.

The video/projection aspect within the show took away from the actor's performance. This monologue and delivery were my highlight and was by far the most captivating performance in the show. The video pulled my attention away. The writing in this moment spoke for itself. It really felt like we were Helen Crieghton in this moment, witnessing this story spoken for the first time.

I think the use of the classic "Farewell to Nova Scotia" as a connective tissue was a very clever concept, however, I feel the execution is not quite at its full potential. I think using an instrumental track of the song could help fill the gaps and provide consistency throughout the story. A soundtrack or score of sorts. I felt disconnected with Helen Creighton's character at times (probably due to her very composed demeanour), and having music could help us see into her psyche as she uncovers the haunted folklore of the province.

Overall, I can see a lot of potential with this production. With further developement I could see this show becoming a staple in educating the public on this local legend.

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 10, 2026, 1:59 a.m.
♻️
See It Again

Great leaning about Dartmouth history from a great story! Cast did an excellent job and the set created an excellent atmosphere to bring you back in time. Definitely recommend!

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 10, 2026, 1:35 a.m.

I was not only entertained, but fascinated by the story of Helen and Doreen, and the way Faye and Melanie portrayed their characters. All the actors' performances were outstanding. I throughly enjoyed myself, and the sing a long was the perfect way to close out the show. I'm so glad that I decided to check it out.

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 9, 2026, 8:53 p.m.
♻️
See It Again

The Fabulist is fabulous! Seriously - loved learning about Helen Creightons life portrayed through a great cast - especially Faye and Melanie! Wow the whole crew did an amazing job! Really uniquely portrayed which is rare and special!

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 9, 2026, 8:33 p.m.
♻️
See It Again

Wonderful tribute to Dartmouth’s famous folklorist. Cast does a terrific job of capturing the era and it’s characters!

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 8, 2026, 6:05 p.m.
♻️
See It Again

I really enjoyed the Fabulist which was about the life of Dartmouth folklorist, Dr Helen Creighton. All of the actors did a fine job, the set changes were smooth, the script gave a lot of attention to detail. I love learning about an inspiring local woman.

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 8, 2026, 12:11 a.m.
♻️
See It Again

A truly fascinating, educational document of the achievements of Nova Scotia local hero Helen Creighton, the folklorist and historian who famously compiled and published books on old local folk songs and ghost stories. Definitely deserves to grow and spread itself to the world.

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 7, 2026, 2:20 p.m.
♻️
See It Again

This show was amazing!! Wow the cast did wonders in portraying their roles and Faye Hiscock in particular was quite a highlight - she really allowed us to take a glance into Helen Creighton’s life and works! Bravo everyone!

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 6, 2026, 10:42 p.m.
♻️
See It Again

Thoroughly enjoyed this play! Definitely got a better understanding of who Helen Creighton was.

2026 Halifax Fringe Festival
Sept. 6, 2026, 10:24 p.m.
🤯
Mind Blown

Today I went to see THE FABULIST and I LOVED IT, it is one of them best, accurate, and enjoyable plays of this year, I MOST HIGHLY recommend this play to everyone, and I also recommend those same audience members visit EVERGREEN HOUSE, Helen's home in Dartmouth. You will enjoy the museum very much. I am also a volunteer at the museum