Alberta Youth Theatre Collective

Divine Wisdom in a Floral Set By Augustus Williams

You don’t need a church to talk to God - at the Fringe all you need is the Garneau Theatre. The stand up comedy spectacular returns again this year, and God is more ready than ever to critique the world. God is a Scottish Drag Queen (All New) begins with the belief that everything we need to get through life, we learned in kindergarten. God muses on sharing, hygiene, and all the other basics that were being taught in pre-K, and how perhaps we’ve forgotten a little too much of it. Family troubles, political decline, and technological overlords are all victims of the clever act, written by Mike (God) and Chantelle Delamont. The show had the audience roaring with laughter just as often as it had us squirming in our seats out of just how hard God makes us face reality. On a stage like the Garneau, God is faced with a large stage to fill for a one person show, but fill it he certainly does. An element of the show that aided this was the tightly rehearsed projection work, which delivered some huge visual punchlines. The show was stage managed by Chantelle Delamont, and it’s clear these two have been working as a team for a long time, on many different stages. God is a Scottish Drag Queen (All New) is a riotous piece of comedy that will have any theatre-goer laughing so hard they see God; on stage in front of them, delivering the jokes.

Not just for hockey fans!

A Hockey Night at the Puck & Pickle Pub review by Andrea Noga (Alberta Youth Theatre Collective)

If you’re a Canadian excited by the announcement that NHL players will henceforth be permitted to play in the Olympics, this might be the show for you. Also if you’re just Canadian, this might be the show for you.

Hockey Night at the Puck & Pickle Pub imagines the 2026 gold medal Olympic match between the United States and Canada, McDavid and Matthews head to head in a game watched around the country. The show takes place in the title pub, with two actors (Ryan Gladstone and Jon Paterson, with Gladstone as the sole writer as well) playing a variety of different pairs of pub customers. From themselves, to crass older ladies, to statistic obsessed hockey nerds, the pair of actors demonstrate a keen comedic range in a show that will keep you laughing throughout.

The show is in constant movement between characters– to the point that the actors have to keep a cheat sheet onstage to remember which pair of characters they’re switching between. They stay on track mostly, with a few mistakes here and there that are more funny than awkward. The actors offer clear physical choices that help differentiate the many characters, and add an extra comedic dimension. Gladstone and Paterson work well as a duo, operating on the same wavelength and being completely attuned to the other’s timing and nuances. They are well matched and make the other’s performance better, and the individual performances were pretty good to begin with.

Though where Hockey Night really sings is in the script. While both actors are equipped with strong comedic reflexes, the actual jokes on the page are smart and well crafted. For what is mainly a sketch show, Gladstone’s narrative commitment and comedic follow through is impressive. Jokes pay off right when they need to, and none of the characters overstay their welcome. The joke to laugh ratio is impressive, and the sheer number of jokes which hit would challenge for a Fringe 2025 record. For a relatively simple premise, Gladstone milks it for all that its worth, and it is worth quite a lot.

If you’re worried about not getting the references, don’t be. Sure, hockey history and key players are discussed throughout, however the show is not just some display of jock jargon. Fellow hockey fans will enjoy some of the deep cuts brought up, however the comedy in the show comes largely from character dynamics and wacky situations– which can be enjoyed by anyone, hockey fan or not. No matter your Fringe tastes (or taste in sports), this is a quintessentially Canadian show that is bound to make anyone laugh eventually.

Hockey Night at the Puck & Pickle Pub plays at the Campus Saint-Jean Auditorium.

Celebrating Ten Years With Nonstop Laughter - Sydney Boisvert

After 10 years together, Marv N’ Berry knows exactly how to deliver laughs, and their “Greatest Hits” show proves it. The performance was a tightly organized, fast-paced showcase of sketches that flowed one after another, keeping the audience laughing from start to finish. It was evident that this troupe had honed their craft over the years, selecting bits that not only stood the test of time but also showcased their unique style.

The chemistry among the performers was remarkable. They understood each other’s boundaries perfectly, pushing jokes just enough without crossing the line into excess. This trust made their sketches feel sharp, vibrant, and brilliantly timed. With a wide variety of humor, ranging from goofy to absurd to sharp satire, there was never a dull moment, and the pacing made the entire hour fly by.

Even as a first-time audience member, I left feeling energized, entertained, and thoroughly impressed. Marv N’ Berry didn’t just look back on their 10 years of comedy; they celebrated it with skill, passion, and the kind of chaotic joy that makes sketch comedy unforgettable. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just exploring Fringe comedy, this show is a must-see.

Variety, Chaos and Comedy - Sydney Boisvert

When life presents obstacles, Jon Bennett turns them into comedy. Stuck in the U.S. and unable to reach Canada, Bennett hosted CANADON’T virtually while his all-star lineup of friends performed live. What could have felt like a compromise instead became a clever twist; the virtual hosting added humor and set the tone for a night that was lively, playful, and full of laughter.

The variety of acts kept the show fresh and engaging. Highlights included a horror story that involved audience participation and a finale set to a song featuring the outrageous premise that “the homecoming queen has a gun.” The mix of stand-up, sketch, and unpredictable Fringe energy gave the show its own personality while reflecting Bennett’s irreverent style.

Despite the hybrid format, the pacing never lagged. The evening flowed quickly from one act to the next, leaving no room for boredom. Instead, it showcased a diverse range of performers whose talents shone individually but also harmonized under Bennett’s playful, tongue-in-cheek banner.

At its core, CANADON’T felt less like a workaround and more like a celebration of the collaborative spirit of Fringe. Even in Bennett's absence, his influence was palpable, yet the performers made the stage their own. The result was a lively, laughter-filled night perfect for any Fringe-goer seeking variety and surprise.

History Has Never Been So Hilariously Obscene - Sydney Boisvert

Stroke of Genius is exactly what its title promises, an absurdly smart and hilariously funny academic exploration of one of humanity’s silliest universal gestures. Equal parts intellectual satire and Monty Python-style buffoonery, the show had the audience alternating between laughter and gasps of surprise as it made a comically serious case for the significance of pantomime masturbation in the history of performance.

The multimedia “lecture” format was both clever and engaging. Pre-recorded clips of the actor miming masturbation were projected as though they were part of a scholarly slideshow, creating the feel of an absurd university seminar that had gone delightfully off the rails. The concept never grew stale; instead, the ridiculous commitment to treating the material seriously enhanced the comedy as the performance progressed.

Central to the show was the Professor, who was played with fantastically over-the-top enthusiasm. What could have been awkward subject matter instead became delightfully playful due to the performer’s willingness to embrace grandiosity and bring the audience along for the ride. His delivery kept the energy high, and the sheer audacity of the premise felt fresh and inventive throughout.

Ultimately, Stroke of Genius: Pamtomime Masturbation Throughout Performing Arts History isn’t trying to change the world, but it does push the boundaries of what comedy can explore. By mixing clever parody with unabashed silliness, it manages to be both ridiculous and impressively committed to its premise. I left the theater amused, a little shocked, and genuinely impressed by the show’s innovative take on comedy as a lecture.

NaturElles’ Super Secret Slumber Party

If you’re looking for the super secret slumber party hosted by the 10 year old founders Flora and Fawna for teaming building, it’s in Fawna’s backyard.

Flora and Fawna Face Their Fears is a production where two best friends Flora and Fawna get a new secretary Fern Gumley whom neither like very much. Together the three of them face their fears, tell ghost stories and learn each other's secrets. While Flora and Fawna’s friendship gets challenged.

This production is hilarious, from the commentaries on current events and occasional break of the fourth wall definitely the cherry on top. From the fights and chaos that ensued at the end it was heartwarming and sweet. The performers were spectacular playing their part each with passion and that preteen attitude that you either love or hate. The lights, the costumes, the props, the sounds like the crickets and the dog barking, so many things brought the story to life and enhanced the experience.

It overall is a fantastic show and one highly recommended. It brought comedy, preteen drama, and a heartwarming ending, what terrific way to end off a show if you got the evening to spare and you’re in the mood to laugh come to Flora and Fawna super secret slumber party, a.k.a. Flora and Fawna face their fears.

An Hour of Fast-Paced Fun - Sydney Boisvert

Neurohilarity certainly lives up to its name, offering an hour of brilliantly awkward and sharply funny performances that showcase some of the most talented neurodivergent artists at the Edmonton Fringe. From the very first act, the audience experienced a blend of laughter and connection, drawn in not only by the comedy but also by the authenticity behind it.

The lineup on the night I attended was impressively diverse: a burlesque dancer, a clown, a stand-up comic, and a burlesque performer who also sang. This variety kept the show fresh and unexpected, with each act presenting a unique perspective and energy. Among them, the singer particularly stood out, blending humor with performance in a memorable way.

As hosts, Adam Schwartz and Carole Cunningham brought complementary styles to the stage. Schwartz’s dry, relatable humor set a grounded tone, while Cunningham contrasted it with her lively energy. Together, they maintained a quick pace, seamlessly weaving their stand-up routines between acts with sharp timing and a genuine connection to the audience.

Although the show leaned heavily on stand-up comedy, its fast-paced structure,smoothly transitioning from one performer to the next, kept things lively and engaging. It never felt slow; rather, it built momentum with each act, holding the audience’s attention throughout.

As I left the theater, I felt both entertained and impressed by the sheer range of performances packed into that hour. Neurohilarity is more than just a showcase; it’s a celebration of neurodivergent voices and perspectives, wrapped in comedy that is relatable, surprising, and consistently entertaining. Whether you come for the laughs or the representation, this show truly delivers.

A Woman Is... is a deeply real one-woman cabaret that has clearly has a lot of care put into it. Kiki Moritsugu tells the story of herself, and of her mother, and how they interacted and influenced each other. Kiki presents different aspects of her life - her relationship with her mother, her experience with racism, and her relationship with motherhood, among others - all in a very raw and multi-faceted way that gives insight into not only her unique life, but the human experience as a whole. Additionally, she adds musical numbers throughout the show, and her voice is powerful, controlled, and versatile. From choreography to live piano to funny jokes, the show has a lot of parts to it while maintaining a consistent vision. I believe that anyone, but especially artists or people of colour, could relate to something in this show, and it is worth seeing!

Ari Mitchell, AYTC

Heathers the Musical: Teen Edition By Augustus Williams

It’s always a treat to get to see young performers on stage, and Heathers the Musical: Teen Edition was no different. This show was fun and energetic, and performed entirely by high school aged actors. The opportunities for young artists in Edmonton are incredible, and it’s amazing to get to see so many of them at the Fringe. The ability to put up a production of that scale is very admirable to see from young people, and showcases a commitment to the theatre that is exactly the kind of thing the arts community loves to foster. Heathers was a very fun performance to see, and inspires hope about the future of theatre in Edmonton.

Plan V, More Like “I Plan To See It Again”

I would definitely be attending all of the next Plan V meetings because I could safely say that I was a whole different person before seeing this show. I laughed so hard, felt a wave of revolutionary energy, and felt sad at some point.

Eleanor O’Brien wowed the crowd with her amazing use of accents and impersonations (not to spoil anything, but she played more than one character, and I couldn’t tell until after!). Plan V is a very interesting and bizarre way of executing theatre as it talks about prominent issues that surround sexual-related discourse and empowering men and women while still being hilarious, as it is set in 2035 (when fascism has taken over the world) as a top secret seminar meeting.

Definitely, I could say that this show is truly Fringe-coded. If you want to be part of a revolution, definitely rush to see this show as it is showing at venue 34: The Faculty Events Centre until August 24th. “Pussy power activate!”