The Last Perfect Game: The Jerry Stephenson Story

Long-time bowler. First time Fringer. I was initially apprehensive about how the producers would set a play in a bowling alley, but the hyper-local story had me hooked. My apprehension remained as I found a seat on the lanes... but almost needless to say, within minutes of the show starting, I was immersed in two intertwined stories woven together by a character portraying the original owner of Plaza.

The whole bowling alley, walkways, lanes, till area and all is one big stage with the actors moving seamlessly through the crowd to create distinct moments between the characters and create a sense of action. There was definitely some bowling "magic" but a few genuine strikes from the actors got the crowd going in ways I wouldn't expect from regular theatre.

The main character does a superb job playing the narrator role of Laurie Stride, injecting moments of levity and humour, and the genuine chemistry of the other characters in each storyline is evident. The actors do a great job building up the momentum towards the big 12th strike.

It was a bit noisy at times with the pinsetter and ball return going, but for a play in a bowling alley, using only the available lights and sound systems, they sure made it work. It's part of the charm.

I'm glad I took a chance on this!

This incredibly unique show is a must see at the 2025 Fringe. While there is a few acting stumbles, the plays setting and its clever usage make for a show like none I've seen in my near 20 years of Fringing. Other reviews have expressed concern with the flash forwards to the present day portion of the story, and while I admit this is the part that most misses the mark, it feels necessary to relate the audience to a time when the perfect game was bowled.

Get there early to get get a good seat, as the show might be less enjoyable based on sightline issues.

Suley Says Superb

A wholesome Edmonton classic. Lots of fun to hear the some of the stories behind Plaza bowling and get drawn into the suspense of the last perfect game. I loved the creativity of the bowling alley as a set - there’s nowhere else this show could be staged. Sometimes the bowl-o-matic was a bit loud, but it’s manageable overall. Don’t miss it if it isn’t already sold out

Should I call the Edmonton Journal? Because this show was unexpected, The Last Perfect Game : The Jerry Stephenson Story brought the audience to an actual bowling alley and was able to immerse the audience into a casual round of bowling that became more exciting with the more strikes Jerry was able to hit.

The Last Perfect Game : The Jerry Stephenson Story was directed by Jan Selman and written by Samantha Fraughton is a story that jumps back and forth in time from a late date bowling night happening in the present and a casual game of bowling in the early 1960s with some friends. During both of these games we get to the growing excitement of getting closer to hitting a perfect strike and if it is possible to beat the perfect score.

The performance of the night provided a relaxed environment that had everyone on the edge the further it went on. The Actors David Widder-Varhegyi, Lauren Johnsen, Sam Villetard and Sadie Granigan-Lema, all had extraordinary chemistry in their characters' relationships and friendships showcasing multiple dynamics. Andrew Boyd who played Rob and David Widder-Varhegyi who played Jerry both had fantastic physicality embodying the characters nature, and Ryan Schmitt who played Laurie helped bring the audience back and forth between both nights narrating them perfectly.

The story takes place in the 1960s and in the present time, and we can really see this difference in the characters' costumes changing back and forth from style in the 60s and from our present day. In fact the environment around in the bowling alley radiated 60s vibes especially with the usage of props. The Play was really able to bring the audience between both words and the attention to detail did pay off.

My initial reaction when I entered the venue and sat down was unsureness. I did not have a single clue on how the play was going to play out and if I would enjoy it. But I was shortly proven wrong within 10 minutes of the play starting and did have a terrific time. I would recommend this short play to anyone and everyone, because it truly was a unique and one of a kind experience.

This show is a love letter to anyone who has ever treated themselves to delicious craft beer and/or grilled cheese sandwiches while trying to impress their friends with their own version of a perfect game at Plaza Bowling Co.

Take a trip back in time to learn about Edmonton's storied bowling history, laugh at yourself for taking 5-pin bowling super seriously, and marvel at the fact that nobody has bowled a perfect game at Plaza since Jerry Stephenson way, way back in 1963.

If you love a good story, some satisfying belly laughs, a bowling alley-turned-Fringe venue, and excellent technical execution (AND two feature cocktails), don't sleep on this show!

Solid play, sometimes a bit trite. Wasn’t very interested in the present day storyline and didn’t think it was totally necessary. However, the venue was very Found Fest-vibes which I loved and the performances were great. Interesting blocking and staging in a unique space. I think the tech was a bit sloppy, but it was opening night and I’m sure it’ll tighten up over the next few days. Show started about 5min late and ended 10min late, so I think they need to work on their process for letting people in early enough for them to scan their tickets at the bar, take off their shoes, get a pair of bowling shoes, and bumble to an open seat. At the Fringe, time is currency.

This is the type of show Fringe was made for.

I saw a preview version of the Jerry Stephenson Story –– the team hadn't yet finished costumes, lighting, and were still working through some transitions. But still, I was fully locked in.

The story is told both through a modern day date at Plaza Bowling Co. (with an actress who is a real Plaza employee!) and the historical story of Jerry Stephenson who really bowled a perfect game there in 1963 (and no one has done so since).

You're seated right on the lanes in the middle of the action, and the whole story unfolds around you. It's incredibly immersive, and I can't tell you how much I wanted to stand-up and cheer every time a strike was bowled. It's infectious.

Yes, Plaza Bowl is a little bit far away from the Fringe grounds, but the trip is worth it. This show cannot –– and will not –– be staged anywhere else. The story has to be told where it really happened. This is the type of scrappy, niche theatre that Fringe was made for.

Make the trip over and don't miss it.