The Jackson Elementary Grade 6 Drama Club presents: BLOOD & SNOW: THE DONNER PARTYS FATAL FORAY INTO THE SIERRA NEVADA WILDERNESS

I audibly said “oh god” several times knowing the history behind this one - an amazing comedy that is taking one of the microcosms of American colonialism and saying something really profound about Manifest Destiny and American exceptionalism as a whole. The props and set are also beautiful and awe-inspiring (if you know you know). Can’t recommend enough!

A very funny premise having an elementary class reenact unsettling historical content. The actors were wonderful, the song choices and props hilarious. Well done!

A chaotic production from Dan Bray featuring a cast of some of the city's best young actors, each doing a terrific job differentiating their core character from the remaining dozens(?) represented by a moustache, accent, or hat swap. Nimble and demented, with three truly showstopping numbers of classic songs built on harmonies beautifully layered by Gabrielle Papillon. The church gym setting, despite its echoes, effortlessly adds a layer of reality to this wild cannibal party. What Fringe is all about!

A brilliant meta-theatrical concept that turns every wink, nod, and hokey needle drop into something sincere, adorable, and hilarious. The no-bullshit anti-colonialism is the cherry on top

Ridiculously funny, perfectly awkward, and excellent performances from everyone! A must-watch

Kids performing plays within plays are my soft spot. Like, I consider a bad play within a play to be peak comedy. This is what I hoped it would be. Dan Bray made a really cool thing here, and every performer (and designer) crushed it! So many great moments. But there’s one moment that I won’t spoil that is equal parts hilarious and horrific and totally startling. You’ll know what I mean when you see it.