My positive experience of seeing St. Francis Talks To the Birds playing at the Helen Gardiner Phelan Playhouse actually begins with the venue and front of house staff. They stick out as a great pairing to host plays at this year’s Toronto Fringe Festival. Front of house members got us pumped for the show, and there isn’t a bad seat in the house. Upon entry, the creative and playful set, (spray paint and saturated colours are used!) set a particular tone. I wait in excitement to what see story will take place here.
After seeing some heavy character work both in solo and ensemble shows this year at the Fringe, it took me a couple of moments to switch gears for Brad Hart‘s “stand-up monologist” performance style in his show Oh God-The Drums (Olmstead Productions) playing at St. Vladimir’s Theatre in this year’s Toronto Fringe Festival. However, after maybe five of those minutes, I began to get wrapped up in this endearing story.
The stage is set: A wooden stool opposite a drum kit. Brad Hart emerges to play himself, telling the story of his growth into the drummer and the artist he is today: someone who loves what he does, and shares the difficult times that lead him to choose such a life.
Set in the 1950’s, drama ensues when the mining company in their small town reopens, Rick goes back to work there, and Daryl proves to be a financial and emotional strain on the family household. I enjoy and commend theatre that broaches difficult subject matter, but the inconsistent tone of Killcreek kept me from connecting to the traumatic events that unfold. Continue reading Killcreek (Beautiful Gem and bojit Productions) 2013 Toronto Fringe Review→
I am often drawn to solo performances as I am fascinated by how one performer can generate energy and drama as well as stage an engaging story all on their own. After Watching Cold Comfort, presented by Fly on the Wall Theatre playing at St. Vladimir’s Theatre as part of the Toronto Fringe Festival, my standards have been significantly raised.
I am always excited stepping into the Tarragon Extra Space (30 Bridgman Avenue), as the venue has consistently housed fresh and exciting theatre experiences for me. Tonight I went there to see Evacuate presented by Rhymes with Orange Productions and I left feeling satisfied by a very sensitive piece of theatre.
