Circular
Circular, by Artichoke Heart, is a whimsical puppet show presenting an aesthetic the reminded me of a mix between Early Pixar and Tim Burton. The storyline, though endearing, was a little unclear. Though a background story was presented through shadow display and recapped at the end, there were still too many questions remaining for me about the logic of the universe in which the show takes place. In particular, there was a clear division between “organic” and “mechanical” puppets, but the significance of the division remained illusive. one criticism in presentation, a significant amount of time is spent pupating on the floor of the space, which can be somewhat hard to see from anything but the first two rows.Overall, however, a weird and enjoyable production. With lovely and endearing moments.
Recommendation: for a dose of weird and wonderful, check it out.
The legend of white woman creek
A story through song, this show quite literally summons the ghost of a Virginia woman who “goes west” after the civil war, falls I'm love with a leader of the Cheyenne tribe, is "rescued“ by the cavalry and who ultimately dies is despair. Performer Katie Hartman is engaging as the white woman of the title, who sings her tale of love and loss.A love story engagingly performed.
Recommended.
Myth of the ostrich
This show has already been getting a lot of buzz and I am happy to report that it is well deserved. A three hander farce, well written, directed, and acted. What starts as a “meeting the neighbours” storyline quirky moves into hilarity fuelled by secrets, large and small. The pace sags slightly midway through this 90 minute piece but quickly recovers, and though the ending is perhaps a little too neat, the resolution is heartfelt andhonest.
Recommendation: Loved it! See it!
Ancient history
An interesting script from David Ives about two people hi are so perfect for each other that they are “the same person” except they are not.Unfortunately this production felt flat and unengaging, as if two people were reading lines to each other for ninety minutes.
Recommendation: give it a pass
Mr. And Mrs. Alexander: Sideshow Phychics.
David Ladder, and Lizzie Tollemache bring to life the final performance of notorious New Zealand stage couple of the title. Ladder and Tolerate handle the crowd and material with alacrity, recreating the entertainment of the 1880s while at the same time providing context and good story narration.I had seen Mr. Ladder at a previous fringe and thoroughly enjoyed his performance then. I enjoyed it even more this time around.
Recommendation: take a trip back in time! Recommended.
She's Black, He's Jewish, They're Married, Oy Vey!
A raunchy, though kind-hearted mix of standup and sketch from Epstein and Hassen. A routine best described by the acronym TMI. Despite an uneven pace, the audience enjoyed the show, and there were certainly laughs to be had. What the act really needs is more polish and shape.Recommendation: take it or leave it. Nothing against the show, but there are more rewarding selections.