Beings
2026 Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival
Aug. 15, 2026, 7:59 p.m.
🤯
Mind Blown

Judith Betzler's show 'Beings' is one some people may overlook because it seems like another silly alien story, but this is far beyond that. This play raises awareness about the 60's Scoop and some of the dark parts of Canadian Indigenous history without creating an environment that was too heavy.

Sitting in the audience, I was immediately intrigued and transported into the world of this story. Having the land acknowledgment be an alien voice instantly added to the atmosphere. The whole theatre stood dark; the only things visible were Betzler's white shoelaces glowing in the dark, giving the scene an alien, almost magical feel.

I was impressed by the commitment and level of detail Betzler brought to this production. Every movement had a purpose and felt real rather than staged. Betzler took the time to tell the story, unafraid to use silent moments. This created genuine, everyday moments. The words Betzler used were descriptive and purposeful. I could picture the story so vividly even though the set was a simple campground.

I recommend this play because it is intriguing, well-performed, and eye-opening.