Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da!

Pizza might not solve life’s biggest problems, but in Pepperoni and Cheese, it becomes the origin of culture clash and friendship.

This is a heartwarming and diverting production that tells the story of Asad (Ram Gill), who moved away from Pakistan for university, and his roommate Marshall (Kelton Libich). After a call with his mother, Amina (Piya Banik Ghosh), Asad and Marshall share stories of their personal lives over a half-pepperoni and half-cheese pizza. To make this new place feel like home, Asad is convinced by Alex (William Oboh) to try something new, which could be fun and potentially dangerous.

Despite being quite simple, the technical aspects of this show were interesting. Though the staging could be improved with some more lights, the chosen colours still created atmosphere and helped shape each scene. The set was unlike any previous shows I had seen at the Fringe. Many shows at this year’s Fringe have taken on minimalist set designs. Contrastingly, this production went full on with its set to mimic the messiness of being a young adult and the disorder that Asad and Marshall face.

The performances by every actor were nothing short of enjoyable and chucklesome. Gill, Libich, Ghosh, and Oboh embodied their roles exceedingly well. Ghosh’s portrayal of the old-fashioned and loving Amina was the standout performance. The wonderful four actors expertly delivered every joke, receiving big laughs from beginning to end.

Overall, this dramedy play is a vivacious and amazing depiction of the ups and downs of life. It is universally relatable, capturing both the humor and angst that define the human experience.

(By the way, pepperoni is the better flavour.)