What better way to start off the 2011 Toronto Fringe Festival than being heckled at and ushered by a troupe of naughty, raunchy Satyrs with long and impressive…err…dongs? If this also sounds like your idea of a good time then head over to the Fringe Club at Honest Ed’s parking lot (581 Bloor St. W) to witness Euripides’ Cyclops presented by Toronto’s Children of Wine, adapted and directed by Jessie Fraser.

Greece, somewhere around 420 BC, and Odysseus is sailing along when he and his crew reach an island with a cave full of cheese and sheep only to learn that the cave is owned by a Cyclops! A very ticked off Cyclops! And if matters weren’t bad enough already those pesky, horny Satyrs won’t stop singing! What is a hero to do?

This al fresco show punctuated with unrelated live music floating in from the beer tent is a fun and hilarious frolic that’s short and irreverent; great for a few laughs. It’s the kind of funny that can only come from a dangerous combination of a lot of wine and sexual frustration. (Living under the rule of an enraged Cyclops can do that to you.)

Be prepared to spend the first part standing while the events unfold around you before being escorted to the Cyclops’ “cave” where you can either stand or sit on available platforms. Be also aware of those Satyrs and the Cyclops, they may try to get you involved, or at the very least try to get friendly with your leg. You’ve been warned.

Details

– Euripides’ Cyclops is playing at the Fringe Club at Honest Ed’s July 6, 8-10, and 12-17.
– All shows begin at 7:30 pm.
– Individual Fringe tickets are available at the door for $10 ($5 for FringeKids), cash only. Late comers will not be permitted.
– Tickets are also available online at fringetoronto.com, by phone at 416-966-1062, or in person at The Randolph Centre for the Arts, 736 Bathurst Street (Advance tickets are $11 – $10 + $1 convenience fee)
– Money saving passes are available if you plan to see at least 5 shows.