Wowowowwowowow. WOW.

I didn't originally plan to see this show, as I had a different Roxy play on my schedule at the same time. However, I’d heard good things about it from 2 different theatre people and a friend was going so I decided this would be a safe bet.

This is probably my favourite show of the Fringe this year, ranked highly among this year's Edmonton theatre shows in general. In just about every way it's phenomenal. The script here was written with beautiful intention and many parts read like poetry. I loved the structure of the stories, moving from realism to fantastical fiction in moments where the character had to confront (or rather, not confront) difficult moments in their history. I loved that there were small subtleties in the first half that discerning audience members could pick up on, that exploded in the latter half.

The performance was phenomenal. Not only was this actor able to sing and play the guitar to great effect, but they were also able to differentiate clearly between characters and express both subtle and intense emotions. And for 90 minutes no less!!

The music was also so good woven into the stories. The lyrics were relevant to the plot/ characters, motifs made returns in later songs, and it didn't just feel like a random concert. Each song played a purpose. The actor's guitar playing was also very skillful, and I recommend sitting near the front so you can watch his hands when he plays. I loved to see control of the sound with effects pedals, which really worked with the lighting to build the atmosphere.

Likewise, the costumes were so perfect. No spoilers, but the change was simple and effective and though I already predicted what the twist would be after the flood scene (I was really, really paying attention during this show), I felt the payoff was still very effective and jarring and delightful and the costumes (and how they look in the light) were a big part of that.

I’m so glad that I went to see this play. I never saw it in the past because I don't care for country music and I thought I didn't care for one-man storytelling shows. Doesn't matter what you like or not. This show is outstanding and not to be missed.