Brianna Farough

A musical story full of twists you’d never see coming, Undiscovered Country is a never ending thriller reminiscent of stories like The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls with a country blues twist. Chris Bullough is a talented singer and storyteller that fully encaptures his audience and never lets them go for even a moment. This mind-bending show is perfect for those who love to pick a story apart at its seams and decide for themselves what makes one worthy of greatness.

A must see for any fringegoer looking for an urban horror, Where Foxes Lie makes excellent use of storytelling, lighting, and sound to create this closed off world, ominous and tense. Jezec Sander’s writing and portrayal as our narrator is compelling and urgent, and the use of lighting and soundscapes is so unique and captivating that it keeps you on the edge of your seat. This play is a modern urban legend in the making, and is perfect for those who enjoy taking a scary campfire story apart piece by piece.

Impactful from the moment you step in the door, Muxe In The Snow is a much needed call to artists everywhere about the integrity of the stories we consume. The incoherence of the show is intentionally placed, showing the audience what happens when we try to tell stories we don't understand the meaning of. Reyna Alvarez’s loose, bewildered character resonates with the audience and keeps them on their toes, and their ability to interact with the audience brought a sense of intimacy between the story and it’s viewers.

A hysterical dark comedy, Cadaver Synod has audiences lining up around the block for all the right reasons. This brilliant trio of actors never misses a beat, never drop character, and fully embrace the world they create and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. This play is a staple for any fringegoer looking for a night of laughs, paranormal thrills, and a forbidden romance hidden just out sight.

A whimsy mythical tale about strength and trials, The Ether Journey is an excellent story for both young and old audience members. Told by brilliant story teller Asia Weinkauf-Bowman, this story about a young girl grasping the meaning of our dreams and their importance to our waking lives is both captivating and charming in the way of innocent children’s fairy tales. Its unique trials and moments of humour bring wonder and joy into even adult audiences, and is perfect for anyone seeking a musing tale on personal strength and determination.

A heartwarming story about an eccentric man navigating the world and its people, First Love’s monologue style is almost reminiscent of Shakespeare in the way of its puzzling, winding paths of story. David Ley’s performance as this misanthropic outcast was charming in a perfectly dishevelled way, and his talent of storytelling truly shone through in this role. This play is equal parts comedic and dreary and is perfect for those who love dissecting a story.

A gorgeous display of art and athleticism combined, It’s Just You And Me and the talented dancers behind it captivated the audience and put such powerful emotion behind every movement. Each act takes on such a different theme and meaning that the range of these dancers is something to be celebrated. Even those who struggle to understand contemporary art like myself will find this piece beautiful and impactful, and will be amazed by the strength and beauty of these incredible artists.

How to espress-o yourself, the Italian way.

Antonio Olivito’s Time Of My Life is a witty coming-of-age story that will capture the hearts of those on their own self discovery. From the clever opening to the pasta themed puns littered throughout his story, Olivito’s energy and clever humour keeps the audience engaged and laughing at the highs, and his heartfelt retellings of his low moments are honest and hit the audience just right. Olivito is a brilliantly funny storyteller who uses his heritage and experience to craft truly amazing stories that may even help guide listeners in their own journey.

A story of grief, ghosts, and not-so-mad madwomen.

Fans of the paranormal and misunderstood gather close! Wendy Weiner’s Mystery House is a story of puzzling phenomena and deceptions, and the truth behind two of history’s more peculiar women. Though a little slow in the beginning, Weiner quickly captures the audience’s attention by drawing connections between Mrs. Winchester’s past and her own. The lighting in between each beat also helps in solidifying the tone of each scene, and makes some surprises far clearer. Weiner’s energy brilliantly illustrates every scene of her story and brings light to some of our past’s most misunderstood madwomen. Any fan of unsolved mysteries and finding truth in tall tales will find much to sink their teeth into.

The Musical Commandments, and how to break them.

A show that will make you laugh and sob in the same breath, Chase Padgett’s “How to play the guitar poorly” is a heartfelt story about understanding yourself, and one story about finding that understanding through music. Padget’s quick-witted jabs at the growing pains of adolescence and the seamless transitions between monologues and musical interludes never loses the audience’s focus for a second. He tells the story of healthy masculinity and finding your purpose in the world, and sells it with gorgeous vocal talent that fills an auditorium. His presence on stage, his voice and his story is earnest and full-hearted.

This show is a must see for those wanting to start a heartfelt, musical journey of their own.