Aiden Carter used to be famous. Christine Sucha thinks she is. Blake Dumas thinks he's Method. Kate Northcliffe wasn't supposed to be here today. #GetItUp: An Actor Prepares is your exclusive backstage pass to witness what happens behind the scenes when a fallen Hollywood action hero, a veteran Broadway songstress, a "Method" actor and a green understudy end up in an off-off-Broadway play together.
Twenty years ago, his play was the talk of the international theatre scene. Now, a playwright clings to relevance as he is haunted by two of his most iconic characters. Detailing the toxic relationship between a creator and his creation, this bold new dark comedy challenges the responsibilities of a storyteller in the art they produce. Inspired by Fight Club 2 and Bojack Horseman, (Art)ist takes on the myth of the male anti-hero and the impact art has on society. FINALIST - 2019 Winnipeg Fringe New Play Contest
12 is inspired by Reginald Rose’s classic courtroom play 12 Angry Men. We open as a high school goes into emergency lockdown. Twelve students are forced into a room to wait out whatever is happening. A social media firestorm erupts as students theorize who is terrorizing their school, and focus accusations on one in particular. Inside the room, all but one are convinced of his guilt. If the truth is to come out, the one standing alone must convince the 11 others to consider the facts, and not just what they see on their screens.
X-Files meets The Twilight Zone… in the dark! The AWARD-WINNING OFF-BROADWAY shadow puppet folk musical! Based on a true story. From Paul Strickland (Ain’t True & Uncle False 5 STARS - Free Press, Papa Squat 5 STARS - CBC) and Erika Kate MacDonald (Evacuated! 4 1/2 STARS - Free Press), co-creators of last year’s SOLD-OUT Tales Too Tall for Trailers (5 STARS - Free Press). “Superb storytelling” - Front Row Center NYC “Wizard-like shadow and flashlight effects” - Orlando Weekly “Seriously creepy fun” - CityBeat
England’s 20-time BEST OF FEST and CANADIAN COMEDY AWARD WINNERS James & Jamesy return from Off-Broadway to steep their most uproarious celebration of friendship and imagination. 2 for Tea is a delightfully bizarre world brimming with innocence and endearing chemistry performed by “one of the most popular fringe duos ever” (CBC). 5 STARS “Complete and utter fun” - CBC 5 STARS “Full-out belly laughs all the way through.” - Winnipeg Free Press 5 STARS “Extraordinary. Amazing.” - Edmonton Journal 5 STARS “Hilarious theatre” - London Free Press
A picture is worth 1,000 words but what about a song? Can a picture inspire a song...or 16? In 35mm, each photo creates a unique song, a story behind a moment frozen in time, a glimmer of a life unfolding, a glimpse of something happening. This multimedia song cycle marries the art of photography and musical theatre to bring you 16 different stories that expose the spectrum of human emotion, from the euphoria of a new fling, the frustrations of a Manny to the darkness that lurks behind the mind of a wanna-be prom queen.
From the creator of the award-winning Beers About Songs comes a NEW true story of friendship and adventure: The 500 List. Two friends spend two years creating lists of their 500 favourite songs of all time, and take a road trip across the US to listen to them. Danger, heartache and run abound in this solo musical storytelling piece about love and friendship overcoming hurt and despair. "Wells is as intoxicating as a 6-pack" - The Orlando Sentinel "Wells is a master storyteller" - The Clothesline (AU) "A vocal angel" - The Jenny Revue
Five-year-old Julian has a marvellous imagination and appetite for wordplay. His dad performs Off-Broadway and is a Canadian Comedy Award winner. This is the story of his dad trying to keep up. With spot-on comedic timing, jaw-dropping physicality and live science experiments, Dandelion touches the soul and stays with you long after the curtains close. Malkin is a 20x Best of Fest winner for his JAMES & JAMESY shows. 5 STARS, 2 for Tea (CBC, WFP) 5 STARS, In the Dark (CBC, London Free Press) 5 STARS, Thunderfoot (WFP, Theatre in London)
Award-winning storyteller Carlyn Rhamey shares the trials and triumphs of growing up a little bit “Special” and embracing what makes us different. A hilariously honest journey exploring ADHD and celebrating neurodiversity. Welcome to Carlyn’s world of chaos, creativity and combat with her mind. 4 STARS “A talented storyteller, with a great sense of comic timing” - Edmonton Journal 4 STARS “Hilarious... with a very heartwarming message” - VUE Weekly 4 STARS "A captivating story that shouldn't be missed" - Theatre In London
On May 18, 2006 Jules and Fiona, best friends and teenage dirtbags, come to their senses in a park after a night for the ages. With little to no memory of how they got there, they discover the antidote to their fireball-induced amnesia: Ritalin. "F*ing hilarious. There's a kind of genius at work here." - Colin Thomas blog "Fearless. Skilled. Endlessly surprising." - Georgia Straight "Comedic goddesses" - VanPresents 5 STARS WINNER Vancouver Pick-of-the-Fringe, Georgia Straight Critic's Pick
Where the Wild Things Scar. A multi-award-winning supernatural solo show about inherited traits, claws and all. In a decaying island town, a young boy confronts family legacy and creatures beyond the fence line in this otherworldly, lightning-lit, monster survival tale. WINNER - BEST OF FEST - Cincy Fringe 2018 WINNER - Top Ten Shows of 2018 - Cincinnati Enquirer CRITICS PICK - CityBeat: “Vivid imagery and tactile wordplay” CRITICS PICK - Behind The Curtain: “An engaging, thought-provoking and genuinely funny sixty minutes.”
Join the exciting adventures of ALADDIN in this unique and engaging adaptation of the classic tale! Filled with humour and AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION, every young play-goer helps Aladdin win the hand of the princess, defeat the evil magician and bring wealth to his family -- along with the famous magic lamp! A revival of a local Fantasy Theatre for Children favourite, from the producer of Puss in Boots (4 STARS 2018), Snow White, Brothers Grimm and many more!
A series of vignettes take you on a journey to the same fictional town, on the same night, under the same mysterious and beautiful Aurora Borealis. Cariani’s Off-Broadway hit broke box office records for a reason. In his characters, we see ourselves in the universal struggle of love, loss and the search for human connection. In doing so, we're reminded of the importance of having a place to call home, a place where the temperature often drops well below zero, a place not unlike Winterpeg, Manisnowba!
Fans (and foes) of Eat Pray Love will love this Just For Laughs Award-nominated show that takes you on the modern girl’s hilarious search for enlightenment. “Laugh-out-loud funny without sacrificing any warmth, and you never stop rooting for the hapless heroine.” - Visitorium “A charming and funny critique of the way we lose ourselves in the quest for self-awareness.” - Edmonton Journal 4 STARS “A criminally funny performer who’s almost certainly the lovechild of Kristen Schaal and Tina Fey.” - Charlebois Post
Gemini-nominated comedy writer Aimée Beaudoin and autistic novelist and stand-up comedian Adam Schwartz (Aspergers a tale of a social misfit, 5 STARS) present Anna and the Substitute Teacher. This funny, heartfelt, family-friendly play is about an exceptional day in the life of a charming young lady with autism/Aspergers. When Anna’s beloved teacher, Ms. Cobweb, is replaced by a spooky substitute and Stephanie the bratty bully becomes the new teacher’s pet, it's up to Anna to save the day!
Keith Brown is a world-class magician, speaker and VIP entertainer who has inspired wonder in over 22 countries and counting! Most recently, Keith performed for the First Lady of Iceland! He was chosen Toronto’s BEST magician… and he’s not even from Toronto! Prepare to engage your imagination in mysteries that open the door to infinite possibilities. “Very entertaining” – Eliza Reid, First Lady of Iceland “Jesus Christ! WOW!” – Joe Thornton, NHL “You’re incredible!” – Dave Grohl
TOP 5 PICK “Bad Baby singlehandedly rescues the concept of meta-narrative at the Fringe.” - Torontoist RAVE REVIEW & STAFF PICK “A true Fringe gem” - Mooney on Theatre OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE “Bold and brave” - NOW Magazine Bad Baby knows all the rules for a great solo show. All of them. And she’s gonna follow the rules because rules control the fun! With exceptional acting skills, unmatched good looks, one balloon arch, and a surprise you can’t miss, we guarantee - “...nothing compares to Bad Baby.” (Torontoist)
From the bizarre mind of Aussie Fringe favourite Shane Adamczak (Zack Adams, Trampoline) comes an award-winning sci-fi buddy-comedy about a tiny man who lives in another man’s beard. WINNER – JUST FOR LAUGHS AWARD (Best Comedy) – Montreal Fringe 2017 5 STARS “Brilliantly written... wildly funny performances... hilarious songs” - Global News 5 STARS “It’s what Australian comedy is supposed to be like. It’s touching, clever, hilarious, and wraps up perfectly.” – Rip It Up
Venturing into the rhythmic world of the BAMBOO, the SYNERGY dance production showcases different dances from various parts of Asia. Watch the strategic swiftness and focus of the dancers as they go in and out of clapping bamboos. As the rhythm and music change from country to country, one thing remains the same. Come along with us as we embrace the bamboo dances from the Philippines, India and Malaysia, along with some singing and hip-hop dance performance for a treat.
What does it mean to be Canadian in 2019? An avid road-tripper, a former journalist and a full-on "bud" from Canada, Barney Morin will make you laugh at Canada's biggest problems. How can we talk openly about politics and still all hate the Toronto Maple Leafs at the same time? Is it rude to ask your priest to smoke pot? What is it like to be bilingual in un pays bilingue? And WHERE IS JANN ARDEN?!?
From the producers of Hyronomous A. Frog (4 STARS, Fringe 2017) comes a new take on a tale as old as time. This new take on the classic story has new characters, songs, dances and unforgettable moments for the entire family to enjoy together.
When Kayla matches with Gabriel and discovers their shared appreciation for Richard Linklater films, what begins with four hours at the pub turns into an 11-hour, bar-setting first date—making her realize that sometimes the most amazing nights can produce the most conflicting feelings. Based on a real night inspired by the 1995 film Before Sunrise, this show is art imitating life imitating art. It’s a story of unexpected connection, vulnerability and truly letting go.
FIfteen-year-olds Jesse, Steph and Hazel are at Alice's house for what appears to be an innocent teenage sleepover, discussing crushes and classmate drama from their high school. But what is actually discussed on the inside are issues that are difficult to manage no matter your age. A play for anyone who has ever been told that their problems don't matter.
Charles Dickens comes to Winnipeg with his brand new first novel. Eden Ballantyne as Dickens will perform all of his (now) favourite characters mixed up in a chaotic adventure. With Oliver Copperfield meeting Fagin Magwitch then being sent to London to solve the mystery of Edwin Drood and the Jarndyce and Jarndyce case. Past reviews: “This show can be recommended as something quite different, which will be an enjoyable treat and will leave you with a warm smile.” – SG Fringe “Eden’s storytelling flows light and easy.” – Theatre Design
Jim Loucks' new solo performance, loosely based on stories from his childhood as a Preacher’s Kid, focuses on his relationship with his father, a hellfire and brimstone Southern Baptist preacher, and his struggle to come out from under the shadow of his larger-than-life persona. It is the story of someone finding their unique voice, resisting the pressures of society’s ideas of who they should be and forging their own way. 5 STARS “An outstanding hour of wonderful moving storytelling.” Audience Review - Frigid Fest
Martin Dockery tells the hysterical story of a dead man’s romp through the afterlife! 5 STARS "Razor-sharp” – Winnipeg Free Press. 5 STARS "Most definitely hot” – Edmonton Journal. 5 STARS "Absolutely hilarious” – Edmonton Sun. 4 STARS "It’s really, really good. REALLY.” – The Advertiser, Adelaide, AU. “A side-splitting monologue atop a keg of dynamite.” – Charleston City Paper. “Blazing excitement!” – Orlando Weekly. 5 STARS "Spectacular… Absolutely burns down the house.” – CBC.
WINNER: FAVOURITE PERFORMER (Victoria) Rising Fringe favourite Wass (RIDE THE CYCLONE, 4 STARS - Globe & Mail) unleashes a one-man a cappella musical that blends singing, beatboxing, rapping and dance into a series of uplifting song-o-logues about anxiety, social media and his journey living in Vietnam. 4 STARS "[He] sings, beatboxes and layers sounds into songs and stories that are CATCHY [and] HILARIOUS...a SUPER FUN SHOW!” - Check The Program “A sonic assault on the senses" - Showbill Canada
The Cause is a farce that follows five agents working for a rebellious organization plotting the assassination of a major political figure. Although each agent brings a unique and special set of skills to “The Cause,” they all share one important secret: each one is deep undercover, working for a different foreign interest to dismantle “The Cause” from within. As the mission draws nearer, the agents attempt to execute their plan without revealing their true intentions to one another.
The madcap action-adventures of a Canadian James Bond who's also a substitute teacher. "The most memorable comic performance I’ve seen. A walking cartoon - the BEST PHYSICAL COMEDIAN in town.” - CBC Radio. Cool substitute teacher Chase Breyer is sent to find a missing Canadian spy, only to find out that Canada is in serious danger! “It’s one for the ages." - CBC Radio “HILARIOUS. GENIUS. Operating at a specific juncture of geekdom.” - CBC From one of the creators of 421 Is Dead, Kitt & Jane (5 STARS) and comedian from War of 1812 (5 STARS).
Chase Padgett (6 Guitars, Nashville Hurricane) never thought the tarot card reading he got from a voodoo disciple in New Orleans would come true but it sure did. This show is a hilarious collection of stories and songs about that event and others from the craziest year of Chase’s life. Topics include partying too hard, new love and an actual honest to God heart attack he had on a cruise ship. “Padgett’s command of the stage and musicianship haven't lost a step.” – Orlando Weekly
From the creators of Self-Help Shelf comes a new work. Cob Bob explores the journey of Bob, a farm boy desperate to save his family's sinking business. Bob's brilliant way to do so? Setting up a corn on the cob stand at a huge music festival. Cob Bob navigates current mainstream culture, online presence versus reality, and how experiencing a weekend in a hectic wasteland can bring about a religious and (almost) meaningful experience. "Chelsey Grewar is funny, gritty and — as the kids say — woke." - Winnipeg Free Press
A high-quality show featuring humour, magic feat, and hilarious audience participation. Magic was meant to be funny. And it was meant to be enjoyed by everyone. 5 STARS "Polished and professional, Wood has a delightful rapport with his audience and keeps the crowd laughing and smiling right to the end" - Winnipeg Free Press “...the act never fails to reduce the audience to tears of laughter." - The Neepawa Banner
Jay and Eytan are a New York-based professional comedy duo, originally from Canada. They showcase a perfect blend of sketch and stand-up comedy in their one-hour headlining act - packed with energy, countless punchy premises and just the right amount of spice. Jay and Eytan bounce from quick offbeat impressions to honest and relatable stand-up, to fully choreographed musical numbers, going right for the jugular when it comes to the laughs. So kick back, have a drink, and get ready for a full-on ab workout.
Before he fought the Predator, before he got his ass to Mars and before he was The Terminator again, Arnold Schwarzenegger was Colonel John Matrix. Adapted from the 1985 classic, Commando: The Radio Play takes history's greatest action film* back to a simpler time when special effects were made with slapsticks, aluminum sheets and celery. This production is performed live by voice actors and a Foley artist without the aid of digital effects. It's the blockbuster you have to hear to believe. *Don't argue. I will fight you on this.
After 150 years of waiting, a widow has returned to resolve her eternal fate. Armoured in a full mourning gown and armed with mementos from her past life, she faces the legacy of the American South. Be haunted by a disturbing story of ghostly possessions and prophetic visions in this irreverent dramedy. “richly unsettling” - City Pages “a whirlwind deconstruction of historical revisionism” - KUAF Arts Beat A new show from the creators of There Ain't No More, awarded 5 STARS (CBC) and Best Show (Orlando Fringe).
Here we are: plunked into our one lifelong container. We perch, we wobble, we weave: bleary little blob-eyes blinking.
ALL-NEW CANADIAN PREMIERE from Tim Motley. Two-time Winnipeg Fringe Patrons' Pick award winner and creator of 6 Quick Dick Tricks (5 STARS “Incredible” - Edmonton Journal, 4 1/2 STARS “Ultra-talented mentalist” - Winnipeg Free Press). Help everyone’s favourite magic-wielding psychic detective as he follows a twisty trail of bodies to a sordid 1930s mental hospital, where he must interrogate the hilarious and colourful new characters trapped inside, each with their own tricks to purvey and stories to tell.
Long-distance relationships are the worst, especially when they happen right next door. Canada's 2012 Poetry Slam Champion RC Weslowski plays Lionel, a naive man-child trying to navigate the silliness of sex and bad past relationships with paper products. It's interactive and ridiculous with audience participation and there's a SING ALONG! Leave your fourth wall at home.
A true comedic story of life and death 200 years in the making. While digging through an attic, Patrick found a book listing the obituaries of his family from the past 200 years. Lightning strike, ox cart, boiling oil. You name it. Cursed will tell these tales with comedy and facts about how it could happen to you. 50% comedy, 50% storytelling, 50% TED Talks, 100% bad math People's Choice Award winner - Adelaide Fringe Best Monologue Award winner - Victoria Fringe 5 STARS - Glam Adelaide 4 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press 4 STARS - Weekend Notes
Hilarious, talented, brilliant, short. These are all words that describe Danny DeVito. The same can be said about Unexpected Results! In fact, these four bring a combined 30 years of improvised comedy experience. Unexpected Results are known for creating magical long-form improvised stories based on popular genres from television and film. In their return to the Fringe Festival, Unexpected Results will create improvised stories from a different genre each night! "Their quips are tight and genuinely funny" - Winnipeg Free Press
Dana Smith does stand-up and is very good at it. If you went to see her, you'd definitely laugh a lot and have fun and enjoy immunity-boosting hormones because laughter produces infection-fighting antibodies. Do it for your health. Also, Wee Johnny’s sells booze. Featured on CBC’s The Debaters, Just for Laughs Northwest, Chicago Sketchfest, San Francisco Sketchfest and the Winnipeg Comedy Festival.
A Day in the Life of Myrtle is the story of a creative girl who isn’t like everyone else. Struggling to find her voice, she is rejected by her peers and seen as needing to be “fixed” by adults. Seven-year-old Myrtle flees by escaping into the adventurous world of her imagination where she is powerful and carefree. Myrtle finds a path to true friendship and inner strength where her creativity finds an appropriate outlet in the physical world. “Our whole family loved it! Well done.” “I thought the actress was amazing…”
During an otherworldly invasion, best friends C.J. and Sheldon lock themselves in their apartment. What better time to hash out their personal differences? Will they survive the night? Will this be the last day of humanity? Will they run out of bud? Come check out the Day the Earth Stood Stoned and find out! New York Times: "Get out of my office!", Andrew Lloyd Webber *unreachable*, my friend Dave said, "Anton Chekhov would have liked it."
With 20,000 views and rising on her YouTube advice channel, the very modern and multi-award-winning spinster librarian Ms Samantha Mann spills the beans on her life as a semi-professional advice-giver. Expect tips, reminiscences and a free consultation! 4 STARS – Fringe Guru “Snappy, witty, hilarious, lightly outrageous and always sharply-observed. Comedy at its best.” - Buxton Fringe Review “Ms Samantha Mann is simply delightful.” - Dispatches from the Victoria Fringe Nominated for Best Comedy Event at the 2018 Buxton Festival Fringe.
One woman, three continents, six decades and a lusty affair. From Mumbai to the Outback, New York to the Haight and naive schoolgirl to free spirit, Christina reveals all in this one-woman talk story. Join her as she relives the highlights and laughs at the mistakes. Awarded Best Storyteller, 2017 United Solo Festival (NYC) "Six decades of adventure, discovery and denial in one charming hour... Holding herself with the charm and elegance of a heroine from a classic film noir" - Theatre Is Easy (NYC)
In 1979, a 10-year-old boy in suburban Winnipeg discovered Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine and became obsessed with the ghouls and creatures within. A “monster kid” was born! Soon this “horrormaniac” was on a quest to acquire a Horror Make-Up Kit from a novelty shop so he could win a costume contest that would help him win the affections of a girl at school. Oh, the horror! From the company that brought you Lester Gets KISSed (5 STARS – CBC Manitoba) and Brain Cravers (5 STARS – CBC Manitoba).
A story about a tough upbringing, and how that played out, by Rodney Decroo (Stupid Boy in an Ugly Town). Directed and dramaturged by TJ Dawe (Medicine, Marathon, The Slipknot and more). “A creative powerhouse” - Canadian Beats "A heart wrenchingly rough coming-of-age story” - VUE Magazine “An unassuming yet mesmerizing performer” - Winnipeg Free Press "Few artists risk attempting it: turning something profoundly and deeply painful into a work of transformative beauty.” - Georgia Straight
Let me explain... Multi-talented comedian, writer, actor, storyteller Dion Arnold jokes and jests openly and honestly about this socially condemnable topic in this deeply personal, yet astoundingly relatable comedy. “The perfect person to do a performance such as this.” - ThisIsRadelaide (AU) “A wicked sense of humour.. No-holds-barred attitude.” - TheatreView (NZ) 5 STARS - MMMedia (AU) 4 1/2 STARS "Brilliant storytelling." - WAF (AU) 4 1/2 STARS "Profoundly funny." - Fringe World (AU) “Sure to ruffle a few feathers..” - Broadway World
5 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press, CBC This critical hit of a show is back at the Winnipeg Fringe for the 12th time! A fully improvised Dungeons & Dragons adventure, each show picks up where the last one left off. Heroes and Villains to fall in love with, giant 20-sided dice to be rolled, epic fantasy battles and so much more! Betcha can't see just one!
What happens when two very different one-man shows are accidentally double-booked on the same stage? One’s an overly serious, self-important autobiography, and the other’s a wacky, irreverent musical comedy revue. Who will win the battle for the spotlight? From the team behind the critically-acclaimed Rigby Muldoon: Time Traveller For Hire and Success 5000: Live On Stage. 5 STARS "A very, very, very funny must-see” - Edmontonfringe.ca
For one night only: the long-running Fringe classic. Two wild transfixing comic hours of unrivaled serial unexpectedness from Fringe favourites. One-off collaborations, risked necks and offbeat humour. Proceeds go to the Winnipeg Fringe volunteer program and Winnipeg Harvest.
WINNER Best Solo Show - Storefront Fringe WINNER Audience Choice Award - Hamilton Fringe WINNER Best Performer Award - Swindon Fringe Award-winning clown/magic show, El Diablo of the Cards comes all the way from Brazil to bring you an UNFORGETTABLE night. El Diablo is crossing 52 countries thrilling audiences with a unique card magic style that combines improvisation, a clown's foolishness and amazing magic skills! "Master at getting his audience involved and excited” - Fringe Reviews "I don't trust him!" - Philippe Gaulier
Shocking. Sordid. Disturbing… and true. South Africa’s Erik de Waal delves into the stories lurking behind the sensational posts, tweets and scandals on our feeds. Exploring the dark side of human sexuality, de Waal shines a light on the fear and ignorance that lead to indifference and suffering. Dismissed as a “kerfuffle in a doodlesack” these lives are the hard currency behind the titillation, belly laughs and call-outs that punctuate our daily lives. 5 STARS “Mesmerizing” - CBC Manitoba 5 STARS “A master storyteller” - Winnipeg Free Press
5 STARS “HILARIOUS, EMPOWERING AND TOTALLY VULNERABLE” Sharing the stage with her real-life baby, one-eyed MOTH STORYSLAM CHAMPION and multiple BEST OF FEST winner recounts her pregnancy and epic 56-hour labour as she mines laughs from her most embarrassing sex story yet. From the creator of the multi-award-winning shows BLINDSIDE, The Merkin Sisters and Bushel and Peck. 5 STARS "Expert physical comedy and impeccable timing" - CBC, BLINDSIDE 5 STARS "Outrageously hilarious" - Montreal Gazette, The Merkin Sisters
Family Dinner is back in action with another brand new sketch show. Using their character-based sketches, Family Dinner creates a charming whack-o-sphere that has Kevin McDonald saying, "Honestly, it was funnier than I thought it would be." Will Family Dinner make it to regionals? Will they ever find Banksy? Find out who will win in the ultimate battle between funny and just plain weird. 4 STARS - CBC "The new cast of Glee looks terrible" - Toronto Sketchfest
Two mismatched bank tellers. One harried husband. One stressed-out soccer mom. One hapless assistant manager. Three clueless robbers. One determined accountant. One overtly cautious cop. And one unlikely job interview. Combine these elements and what do you have? Farrago, the frantic comedy of errors and ineptitude. From the group that brought you the Fringe hits The Last Night of the World and Hamlet Chapter Two: Back in Black.
BEST OF THE CAPITAL (DC) FRINGE! "Everything a Fringe show should be: a wonderfully challenging and thought provoking way to spend an evening." 5 STARS London Fringe Festival: "A compelling story of a crisis of conscience that should give its viewers pause to reconsider what it means to care. O'Brien holds the crowd in the palm of his hand from start to finish." "MUST SEE! "Enough food for thought to spark a post show conversation going well into the night and beyond." - St. Paul Pioneer Press
Multi-award-winning powerhouse of guts and gusto Jon Bennett is a storyteller of the meaningful, bizarre, hilarious and true. Fire in the Meth Lab is a roller coaster of drug dealers, bikers, high-speed car chases, fights, crime, vomit and exploding houses. A family story told with charismatic hilarity and heartwarming, poignant reflection. 5 STARS “Bennett has an uncanny and unnerving ability to make you crease up with laughter before dropping a perfectly timed bombshell." - Time Out (UK) **Best of Fest (Saskatoon Fringe, 2018)
The Professor and her Lab Assistant need YOU for their research. Bill Nye the Science Guy meets Blue Man Group in this absurd investigation of instant gratification and celebration of the scientific method. OFFICIAL HOLDOVER - 2018 Edmonton Fringe 5 STARS - Edmonton Journal, VUE Magazine A bold new collaboration from the company that brought you Ask Aggie (4 STARS - CBC), BEST of FEST Fools for Love (5 STARS - CBC) and the creator of BUTT KAPINSKI. A study in comedy. Do it for truth! For glory! FOR SCIENCE!
When a bungled assassination seemingly crosses with divine fate, the results are explosive. The award-winning and always thought-provoking Adam Bailey shows us the bizarre and improbable events that started the First World War in a storytelling event of epic proportions. From the creator of The Life Henri: ★★★★★ - VUE Weekly (Edmonton), WINNER Outstanding New Play, Outstanding Production - NOW Magazine (Toronto) and Adam Bailey is on Fire: ★★★★1/2 - Edmonton Sun, WINNER Patron's Pick (Toronto Fringe)
The Horrible Friends are back, and they’ll be performing like a shadowy government agency has injected them with a nanite explosive for poorly contrived reasons! These jokers are guaranteed to deliver a deadshot of hilarity! Just like before, anyone who volunteers to join them on stage gets a free drink at this licensed venue! Adam Beach. 4 STARS "The dynamic duo doled out a rather impressive - and quite vulgar - performance game after game" - CBC 4 STARS "Enjoyment is guaranteed" - Winnipeg Free Press
When a person dies does it really mean they no longer exist? Thirteen mysterious experiences. Thirteen compelling characters. Directed by Jeff Culbert. Music by John Sheard. An intriguing exploration about life, and what may come after. "Wonderfully acted, thoughtful one-woman show featuring verbatim accounts of encounters with the spirit world. A must-see.” - Kevin Kindred, Halifax Fringe "An engaging piece that is deeply moving at times, very funny at others, and always expertly performed by Richards.” - The Coast, Halifax
Women in refrigerators (WiF): a trope that refers to comic book women who have been depowered, raped, mutilated or murdered in order to fuel the stories of men. Eve knows she is destined for the fridge, and we all expect it. Why do we accept it? In a superhero world, an intimate relationship is a death sentence. The only thing Eve doesn't know is if the light stays on when the door is shut. "Packs a thoughtful punch in the world of comics and superheroes" - Capital Critics Circle Winner of the 2018 Ottawa Fringe *Toasty* Award
A Glimpse of Sunshine is an exploration of self-discovery by various members of the Sunshine Bunch. The act will feature drag queens, spoken word, dramatic re-enactments and some puppets! The group is made of some of the most interesting and diverse people involved in Winnipeg's queer community! This show is a fundraiser for Sunshine House Winnipeg.
Growing up in Brandon, awkward but curious Ryan Clement always wanted to travel. From firing fireworks at the Chinese army to being stranded in South Africa’s Kruger Park to climbing Liechtenstein’s Alps in flip-flops, his often comedic and ill-advised adventures have taken him to 70+ countries. He’d love to share a tale or two during your Winnipeg layover. If he’s learned anything—other than how to get rejected on five different continents—it’s that this world thrives on absurdity and ordinary lives can always become extraordinary ones.
TwoSon has performed comedy in Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton, Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, Detroit, and DC. They are five-time selections at Toronto Sketchfest and headlined Sketchfest Seattle. Devon and Jackie also perform at Second City, Bad Dog Theatre and JFL Solo Showcase. Now they’re bringing a brand-new 45 minutes of neuroses, absurdity and pop culture to Winnipeg. “Clever, inventive comedy showcasing some of the best chemistry in the biz.” - My Entertainment World “Obvious chemistry and kinetic energy.” - Mooney on Theatre
From 20-time Best of the Fest winner Mike Delamont comes the newest chapter in the most popular comedy franchise on the fringe! Winnipeg's favourite Deity in a power suit is back! Come and see why this Fringe sensation has been sold out in Winnipeg the last seven years! You don't need to have seen any of the other shows to fall in love with the Almighty! This Fringe, God returns to expound on everything from white privilege to gay rights in an all-new and hilarious hour of comedy.
5 STARS "A Comedic Hurricane" - Washington DC Metro Theater Arts In this quirky prequel to the Bible, God has a universe to create but he's running late. Easily distracted by ADHD, He discovers an audience in His formless void. As the Almighty contemplates your Creation, he performs miracles, for your amusement, in the instant between "Let there be..." and "light." "Awesome... Go see it!" - Ottawa Life
Vegas, Nashville and Broadway come alive in this 75-minute comedy-cabaret featuring show-stopping tunes and seriously funny stories. Join Teddy Bender from Pickled River, the self-proclaimed "world-class entertainer", as he blows your mind in this far-out trip. Tonight is Teddy's final show and he wants to spread his flower power with all of his worldwide fans. So be ready to get your groove on and let's start this party with some infamous Pickled River champagne! "Sensational - a must-see" - Staff writer, Pickled River Gazette
Two female fan(atic)s of Elvis await admission into Graceland. Their rivalry for "most devoted fan" morphs into something deeper. As they tell their sometimes humorous stories, each reveals the extent of the drama and gender-based oppression in her life and the consequences of her own life choices. "Genuine, touching and evocative" Shoestring's Fringe hits include: Waiting for the Parade, Flannery's Ocean, Quilters and The Dining Room.
Award-winning comedian Graham Clark loves game shows, which is why he created Quiz Show. Originally a spoof on segments from game shows past, Graham Clark’s Quiz Show grew to incorporate all original segments. Local and visiting comedians are the contestants, and do their best to make audience members laugh – and win them prizes, of course. “truly an amazing and hilarious spectacle of humour and comedy” –Vancouver Is Awesome “Incredibly unique” –Vancouver Magazine
Murder, mystery and magic await in this all-new interactive show! The year is 1926. You and a group of esteemed guests have been invited to witness the newest illusions of a world-renowned magician in a haunted theatre. But when the magician ends up murdered, it’s up to his bumbling butler to solve the crime before the suspect gets away! One of the guests is the culprit - maybe it’s even YOU! The Great & Powerful Tim presents a brand-new show, blending mind-blowing magic, hilarious improv comedy and an immersive murder mystery.
We want YOU! Grab a pillow and your favourite flavour of lip smackers. The girls in cabin five need you for The Great Pillow War. It’s 1996 and do you think we're going to let the boys cabin walk all over us again? Ugh. As if! It’s time to enter the war zone - the fluffy, dandruff-filled war zone. From the team that brought you Call Girls (4 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press) comes a new comedy about the battle of going through life as a young teen. All we need is YOU! Come on, soldier!
Straight out of University, best friends Mary and Beth team up to grow and sell their own strain of marijuana. However, the legalization of cannabis in Canada results in a drastic drop in customers for the dynamic duo. Stella, the third member of their trio and roommate, works towards her final exams while the high jinks of her two best friends looking for meaning beyond dealing drugs begins to compromise her sanity.
A new play from the creators of The Ballad of Johnny Boy (Winner of the Harry Rintoul Award for Best New Manitoban Play 2018, 4 STARS - CBC) and KING (4 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press). In 1977, humanity launched the Voyager 1 onto the cosmic stage. Aboard, a golden record and history’s greatest composers turned space explorers: Mozart, Bach and Beethoven. Skip the opening act and join The Headliners for a night of live original music in a symphonic supernova that will be seen throughout the stars. Hopefully.
A retelling of the Roman myth of Medusa. She was a mortal woman, bound to the service of Athena. That all changed when Poseidon assaulted her, leading to a curse that petrified everything her eyes met. A reframing of the myth with modern sensibilities. What makes a monster? And have we been fearing the wrong character? A new reimagining from the mind that brought you Medea and the Argonauts (4 STARS - CBC), one of CBC's under-the-radar picks for Winnipeg Fringe 2018.
Reset. Scene One. An outdoor wedding. Eve and Laura are fighting again, and Gabe and Toby don't know why. This night should be perfect. Reset. Scene one. From the writer/producer of Family Dinner ('18, 4 STARS - CBC) comes Here Together, a surreal exploration of friendship and isolation. Four friends confront the barriers between them while simultaneously creating new ones, and try to answer the question of what brings them together.
Welcome to a one-of-a-kind assembly line in a factory fabricating hit songs that hit the spot. Wielding live wires and pulling no punch lines, Devon More Hits Like a Girl l with her “masterful blend of musical storytelling” (Plank Magazine). Switch the Hit Parade to her strange, contagious arrangements that one-hit wonder about executive dysfunction and crack jokes about moments of great impact. From 2018 CBC Critics Pick (4 STARS “dope-ass beats") Devon More of Flute Loops: 4 STARS “This is truly a one-of-a-kind show.” (Free Press)
Hot Dogs at the Eiffel Tower What kind of parent KNITS their daughter a wool swimsuit? Or gives her a briefcase for her 11th birthday? Or keeps her in the dark about where she came from? British comedian Maggie Gallant shares her childhood embarrassments and adulthood discoveries as she unleashes a Pandora's Box of hope, lies and 'un très magnifique' French Papa! "Funny, French, and fantastic" - Theater Jones, Dallas "Charismatic quirkiness" - Austin Chronicle
What’s the difference between dying “properly” and dying with Alzheimer’s? Dying while loved or...? Does death require the bereaved to exclaim: 91 is too young to die! Does Alzheimer’s demand forgetting them before they forget you? Using humour and horror, this new one-man show tells how Gerald and husband tended the final five years of nonagenarian parents. Describing their individual shuffling off, this funny, poignant and thoughtful reflection offers an understanding on life, roles as children and expectations met or missed.
HUNKS brings you another batch of their best seriously silly sketches! Join them as they prove once again why they're the "sketch comedy equivalent of a party band" – Randall King, Winnipeg Free Press 5 STARS – Winnipeg Free Press, 2015 & 2016 “HUNKS is the perfect cocktail of great skill and impeccable timing.” – Jonathan Torrens (Trailer Park Boys, Mr. D, Jonovision) “Each absurd or cartoonish move had been very carefully crafted and strategically placed.” - Maddy Rafter, Discorder Vancouver
“Look, if you had one shot. One opportunity to seize everything you ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it or just let it slip?” - Eminem George let it slip. Now in this energetic and fast-paced one-man show, he tells the story of how he got on Jeopardy, almost won big and then blew it all. Join George as he takes you behind the scenes of America’s favourite game show and into the strange world of hyper-competitive trivia. A show about pursuing crazy dreams, learning to embrace failure and becoming temporarily “Winnipeg famous”.
What if your mom is the Earth goddess and she doesn't like your boyfriend? What if the man of your dreams whisks you away to a land of darkness and mildew? It's the Greek myth of Persephone reimagined, featuring a singing three-headed dog, a misunderstood Medusa and a Zeus with an uncanny resemblance to a certain President. Plus, a sparkling original score that hearkens back to classic Broadway. See you in Hades!
Sparked by the death of his father and birth of his daughter, Comedy Central comedian Bill Santiago goes in search of answers and laughs at the border of science and religion, exploring the comic nature of the cosmic quest for understanding existence, life, death and the number 33 (not necessarily in that order). “No cosmic question is too challenging to escape the laser wit of Bill Santiago,” notes theatre critic Amy Kotkin (DC Metro Arts). “You will never have a better time musing on the nature of life.”
Who is Poncho Kid? Where did Poncho Kid come from? What are Poncho Kid’s powers? Who is Poncho Kid’s arch nemesis? Only the audience can help the Rascals Improv Comics uncover the truth in their heroic comedy adventure. For 18 years, the Rascals have entertained audiences with their clean improv comedy. Yes, their shows are clean, EXCEPT their uncensored late night Dark Rascals shows (with improv guest stars).
The Fringe’s dirty little secret is in heat again, celebrating their 20th year of performing short form improv together. Watch as these sex-kittens claw and scratch their way through a purrnographic potpourri of mashed-up and unique games and scenes based on your suggestive suggestions. Now here’s the money shot: $20 from every sold-out show will be donated to Craig Street Cats. 4 STARS “…can take even the most bland audience suggestions and spin gold” - Winnipeg Free Press 5 STARS “…kings of short form improv” - CBC Radio
Judy is an icon, loved as Dorothy in Wizard of Oz. But in the 1930s, Deanna, “Winnipeg’s Sweetheart”, was a much bigger star. A favourite of Roosevelt, Churchill, even Mussolini, her first kiss was front page news in the NY Times. At 27, she left film for a life of obscurity in France. Ingenue tells the true tale of the lifelong friendship – and rivalry – of these two great stars of Old Hollywood. Starring Melanie Gall, from Fringe hits Piaf and Brel and We’ll Meet Again. “An unforgettable delight” - CBC; “Gall is astonishing” - Metro Arts
10,000 sq. feet of paper. One pen. Canadian Comedy Award winner and Off-Broadway performer Alastair Knowles, of 20x Best of Fest JAMES & JAMESY, bids a visually stunning adieu to the era of putting pen to paper. A sketch comes to life, determined to find depth in a two-dimensional world. Knowles has a “pitch-perfect ability to express his character’s bittersweet search for human connection through movement.” - Toronto Star 5 STARS - CBC/Winnipeg Free Press, 2 for Tea 5 STARS - CBC, In the Dark 5 STARS - Theatre in London, Bushel and Peck
Two-time Montreal Spirit of the Fringe Award winner (2016/17), Montreal’s Best Kisser (2015) and certified sexpert Fiona Clark stars as Ms. Beatrice Haven (who knows nothing about sex, and finds it rather stressful). Watch as she struggles to navigate sexual education, her own sexuality and dental dams. Hopefully, you’ll learn something. SOLD OUT: Toronto, Edmonton and Vancouver Fringes "Clark's charisma and charm fill the entire room, making you almost forget that what you’re watching is actually educational." 4 STARS - Gig City, Edmonton
Winnipeg Fringe poster child Sydney Hayduk is back with Jellyfish Are Immortal Returns: The Same But Completely Different. A collage of what matters most. Includes unseen content featuring the price we pay for survival. A manifesto. Come get fierce and tango. Welcome to the ocean. Grab a life vest. We have some more work to do. "irrepressible energy" - CBC "well-crafted, beautifully executed" - Montreal Rampage From the creators of: Angels & Aliens, 4 STARS - CBC Village Ax, 4 STARS - CBC Bizarro Obscure, 5 STARS - CBC
The critically-acclaimed Off-Broadway show based on the life of Josephine Baker returns! Josephine is a one-woman biographical musical that combines cabaret, theatre and dance to tell the story of the iconic Josephine Baker, the first African-American international superstar and one of the most remarkable figures of the 20th century. 5 STARS "If there’s a truly must-see show…it’s Josephine" – Winnipeg Free Press 5 STARS "It’s a perfect piece of theatre for the time we are currently in" – Plays To See NYC
What if JULIET didn’t kill herself? Juliet tears herself from the fabric of Romeo and Juliet, determined to write her own story. Wandering through the canon of Shakespeare’s greatest plays, she encounters other renowned female characters and recruits a team of kick-ass women to confront Shakespeare himself. Created by Pippa Mackie (Progressive Polygamists - 5 STARS) and Ryan Gladstone (The Seven Lives of Louis Riel - 5 STARS, No Tweed Too Tight - 5 STARS) and also featuring Carly Pokoradi (Jesus Christ: The Lost Years - 5 STARS).
From one of the creators of Cast Away: a Musical Parody, the talents of award-winning composer Brad Torres are reanimated into a melodic penny dreadful - The King in Yellow: a Musical Parody. The paths of Alec, the poet, the church-going Ambrose and the painter Mr. Scott have never crossed. Nevertheless, something sinister binds their fates, as they try to laugh through the pain of circumstances far beyond their control. "Brad [rose to] the challenge of making a musical from damn-near-impossible source material." - Winnipeg Free Press
It's your ol' pal Larry, from Moose Creek, BC! He's “no idiom”, and he'll be the first to tell you that he's handier than a pocket on the back of a shirt. He wants to prove that he's worthy of a good woman, that he can quit 'cussin and even take up "medertation". Bold, smart and f@#king funny, LARRY's internal trip turns out to be more terrifying than he ever thought was possible. "A unique, world class, moving piece of theatre, comedy, and dance.” – Annette Loiselle, Artistic Director SkirtsAfire Festival, Edmonton
Inspired by real events of the Second World War and soldiers in the playwright's own family. Follow the journey of Paul Bailey, a Canadian soldier fighting his way through Italy and his wife Betty, waiting for him to return, as told through the letters they send each other.
Freedom, but at what cost? A Palestinian immigrant and her family find more freedom in the US than expected. A true-life show directed by Bill Pats, written and performed by Laila Lee. In this one-woman show, she brings to light her experiences growing up Muslim in the South, and how she discovers her own place in the world and what sacrifices she must make. A first-timer to Winnipeg, Laila studied theatre at the University of South Florida after abandoning her medical degree. In 2019, she won Most Courageous at Shameless Stories in Tampa.
Join an actor in his quest for a career that goes from acting work to the many odd jobs in between. A surprising narrative of adventures on and off set, all in pursuit of the dream. Inside stories of acting classes, TV and theatre gigs, interwoven with real-life roles such as cherry picker, coin shop employee and call centre representative, to name a few. Unexpected discoveries and reflections from the work, about acting and life. A journey towards….
5 STARS “Starring two of the most gifted and funny physical performers at the Fringe” - CBC Following a highly successful 2018 tour, Pulsive Party is back with their award-winning show, LIP SERVICE, with more wit and clit than ever before! Full of saucy song, aggressive dance and sex ed you’ll never forget, join two larger-than-life vulvas as they navigate their relationship to service, self-acceptance and sexual empowerment within a hilarious world of competition and 'doing it all'!
A variety show for the marginalized, the angry, the unseen. LUB DUB is unapologetic, political and fiercely entertaining. Centering the experiences of Black, Filipino, Queer, disabled and low income folks, LUB DUB invites you to celebrate, collaborate and smash white supremacy. “VULNERABLE. ODD. ENGAGING.” - apt 613 “I left feeling recharged... I made monkey sounds and put pepper up my nose, but I didn’t feel pressured to do it” - APT 613 (Ottawa Fringe Festival)
When a jealous rival sabotages his act, a magician in crisis accidentally buys a wand with real magic powers; but when it disappears, he must join a floundering Scotsman, thwart a Swedish-Nordic SuperDuo and defeat a vengeful hack before discovering what being magical really means. A 10-song musical featuring REAL MAGIC, Magic: The Musical will AMAZE and ASTOUND! From the creators of Taxidermy: The Musical, this hilarious and heartwarming two-man performance will levitate your expectations and leave you asking: “How did they do that?”
Keir Cutler (Teaching Shakespeare, Shakespeare Crackpot) adapts his mother’s award-winning memoir of her summers in the Laurentians in the 1930s. “Simplicity isn't easy to find any more and neither is goodness. In this story they are stunningly exemplified.” - New York Times review, 1973. “Keir Cutler is a masterful entertainer” - Winnipeg Free Press “A phenomenal performer” - winnipegonstage.com “One hell of a storyteller” - VUE Edmonton Keir’s 15th Winnipeg Fringe! Directed by Paul Van Dyck, winner of Montreal’s “Revelation Award.”
Have you heard this one before? A woman, with the help of a man, sets out to tell us a joke. Soon the lines between story, performer and character blur. A tense and funny examination of gender and power emerges as we move rapidly towards the punchline. From the company that brought you past Fringe hits Sea Wall, Peter Fechter: 59 Minutes and 4.48 Psychosis. “A cunning trojan horse of a show” - Post City “A brilliant and poignant piece of theatre” - Ottawa Tonite
One man. One beard. One backpack. One-way ticket. No idea! An epic Latin American journey. Wild adventures, near deaths and hilarious mishaps. Don’t miss out! JFL award-nominated BEST Comedy - Montreal, shortlisted BEST Comedy - Perth, award-winning storyteller - The Moth SOLD-OUT: Edmonton, Montreal, Calgary, London, Edinburgh, Melbourne, Adelaide, Singapore, Perth! 5 STARS "A born storyteller" -' FreshAir 4½ STARS "Hilarious" - VUE Weekly Seen and heard on CBC, BT Montreal, WatchMojo, CTV, SiriusXM, Amazon, BBC.
John Michael needs your help cooking his mom’s meatballs onstage to summon her from the dead to meet his boyfriend, played by the audience. “Unhinged in the most endearing fashion…John Michael explains the only way to avoid participating is to cross your arms. (Pro tip: do not cross your arms. You want to be a part of this).” - St. Louis Limelight "Fast-paced, zany, hilarious and heartfelt” -Chicago Pride “Hilarious… Beguiling… Goofy” - Theaterjones.com “A whirlwind of happiness that must be seen." - Plays with Wendy and John
The Mennonite pioneers didn’t have time for make-believe stories. But if they did: -Hansel and Gretel would be named Abe and Mary. -Little Red Riding Hood would have been on the path to church. -Goldilocks would have been mattscholoping in the bears' beds. -Jack would have climbed the beanstalk to feed his 12 siblings. -Aladdin's genie would have come from a magical tub of bacon drippings. Mennonite fairytales, like their authors, would have been really practical and God-fearing. But that doesn't mean they can't be fun...
In the early 1960s, 13 female pilots underwent secret medical exams to test their suitability as astronauts. Unfortunately, the world was not yet ready for their dream of reaching the stars. In The Mercury 13, a cast of local Winnipeg actors brings to life this amazing true story of forgotten space pioneers.
5 STARS "Immensely entertaining" - The Coast Halifax 5 STARS "A talented magician, charismatic performer, and possibly an actual sorcerer” - VUE Weekly 4 STARS "MIND GAMES is a highly interactive, brain-bending treat" - The West Australian 4 STARS "Holy s**t!" - Saskatoon StarPhoenix Mentalist Jeff Newman will mess with your head. In the award-winning magic show MIND GAMES, Newman will influence your thoughts, make impossible predictions, and even read your mind while revisiting classic games with a mentalist twist.
Interspersed with selected songs found on his Mom's old mix tapes, as well as a few original songs, local theatre veteran Cory Wojcik, backed by a four-piece band, recounts a story of the most difficult yet one of the most amazing days of his life. A show with songs you know and a story so unbelievable it could only be true. It's a concert, it's a show. Set inside the air conditioned X-Cues Cafe and Lounge, come an hour before or stay after for refreshments.
One Filipina. Thousands of racist internet trolls. One deep dive into the comments section. Award-winning storyteller and accidental comedian Monica Ogden sheds light on activism in the age of the internet, mixed-race identity, and why white feminism is like Lays chips. “Sharp, incisive, funny, well-constructed, and devastating” - Janis La Couvee PICK OF THE FRINGE: Bravest Show - Victoria Fringe Festival “Monica Ogden is the worst looking asian I ever saw. Filipinas are supposed to be hot, not feminist” - Nice white man online
In this mind-bending romantic mystery, a man and woman role play a relationship in a midnight hotel room. A Sell Out from Edinburgh to Adelaide and across North America. 5 STARS "Elegantly turns on itself like an emotional kaleidoscope.” – Winnipeg Free Press 5 STARS "Brilliant” – NOW Magazine, Toronto 5 STARS "A must for theatre buffs.” – The Advertiser, Adelaide, AU 4 STARS –The Scotsman, Edinburgh “CRITICS PICK: Utterly compelling.” – Pioneer Press, Minneapolis Top critics prize at fests in Orlando, Cincinnati, Ottawa and Adelaide.
There was a time where people worked hard jobs and liked even harder drinks, a time when people kept to themselves and everyone had their secrets. This absurdist comedy brings these secrets bubbling to the surface in a most daring murder mystery that exposes an intricate web of lies and intrigue as a cast of hilarious misfits scramble to find the identity of a cold-blooded killer. It’s obviously Tom.
From adoption, surrogacy and gay parenting to stepmothers, no stone is left unturned in this humorous and inspiring journey. Anyone who is, has or knows a mother, stepmother or foster mother will relate. Packed with wisdom, laughter and wry surprises, this collection of short scenes shatters traditional notions about parenthood, unveiling its inherent comedy and celebrating the deeply personal truths that span and unite generations. In collaboration with R-G Productions (5 STARS: Not Medea - Winnipeg Free Press, 2018 Fringe)
Welcome to Terra Musicalis, where everyone loves musicals… except for Gus. Watch as Gus’s friends try to fix him. Sounds stupid? What did you expect? It’s a musical. “I think this is either the best play you guys have ever written, or the worst play you have ever written.” - Jeremy, Stage Manager, January 2019 “I thought about it, this is the worst play you guys have ever written.” - Jeremy, Stage Manager, January 2019 “This play is great!” - Michael, Stage Manager, February 2019
Sarah Beau-DeMers, a “female filmmaker” from small-town Ontario, will stop at nothing to make her film, a definitely-not autobiographical coming-of-age film. But after a series of compromises, she'll be forced to choose between the people she loves and the film she was born to make. From the writer behind Clink and The Bar Scene Winner of the 2013 Bertsinger Award Sunday, July 21 is a Relaxed Performance welcoming audience members who need a relaxed sensory experience. Production changes reduce light intensity, sound and movement.
Mistakes happen. A strong person knows how to own them. A tough person knows how to laugh them off. A clever person knows how to make sure no one noticed. My Mistake is a sketch comedy journey through accidents, errors and oopsy daisies of all kinds. The Debutantes showcase their best sketches featuring funny faux pas and snappy SNAFUs in this hilarious Fringe revue. “A unique take on the sketch comedy genre... weird, wacky, and full of mysterious bags of ham.” - Alex Sorochan (VUE, 2017)
A fast-paced, raunchy, physical theatre comedy with enough twists and turns to keep you as confused as its hero! The year is 1976. Grant Canyon is a perpetually inebriated insurance investigator. In his few coherent moments, he leaves a wake of dead bodies, satisfied ladies and empty bottles. “An explosive drop-kick to the head” 41/2 STARS - Edmonton Sun “A high-octane romp” 41/2 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press Back by popular demand after completely sold-out runs in 2012 and 2014.
One Man, One Mystery, No Clue. In 2005, Chris Gibbs premiered this one-man comedy play about Victorian London’s most overlooked detective at the Winnipeg Fringe. It won Best of Fest. Now, after 14 years, over 120 performances, a new title, one sequel, at least 37 new jokes and one Steven Spielberg movie, he's bringing the show back. “Clueless, guileless and absolutely priceless.” - Edmonton Journal “Gibbs’s performance is near flawless. His martini-dry wit is characteristically sharp, and his comic timing is beautiful.”- CBC
Hilarious, touching, fun. Old Tom is charming and funny. He has lived long, laughed hard and loved deeply. He loves to tell stories that make you laugh out loud. Maybe he’ll even bring a tear to your eye. You'll find yourself singing along as he strums his favourite tunes on his ukulele. Winner of the 2017 London One Act Festival’s People’s Choice and Best Actor Awards and nominated for Best Comedy, Brickenden Awards 2018. “A delightfully warm, poignant, silly and fun 60 minutes suitable for all.” - London Free Press
We all love/hate Winnipeg… and yet some unseen magic in between Garbage Hill and The Salisbury House keeps us here. One noteworthy Winnipegger joins the cast every night to share their own thoughts on the ‘Heart of the Continent’. The team of improvisers behind The Big Stupid Improv Show are back to unpack what truly makes this One Great City. “…improv so sufficiently adept they’d make you think it was scripted…” - Winnipeg Free Press 2016
Charlie Ross (One Man Star Wars, One Man Lord of the Rings, One Man Dark Knight, One Man Stranger Things) is back, portraying Iron Man’s armour, Cap’s shield, Hulk’s rage, Thor’s biceps, Thanos’s chin and Black Widow’s butt. Directed by TJ Dawe. “Like the Energizer Bunny” - Calgary Herald “Nerd heaven” - Chicago Tribune “Nuclear levels of energy” - Variety “An uncanny ability to perform multiple characters at the drop of a hat” - Boston Theatre “If anyone can be described as a one-man multimedia machine, Charles Ross is it.” - Australian Stage
Canadian actor and uber geek Charles Ross brings his solo madcap creation One Man Star Wars Trilogy to the Fringe. Ross retells the classic bad hair trilogy in 60 minutes - no costumes, no props, no sets - all the characters, the music, the ships and the battles. If your kid’s name is Chewbacca, this show is a no-brainer. If not, get your nerd on and experience the global sensation loved by audiences from London’s West End, Off-Broadway, Dubai, the Sydney Opera House, Lucasfilm, and Charlie’s mom. Directed by TJ Dawe.
Winner of the coveted 2014 Obie Award in New York, Will Eno’s The Open House is a family drama with a difference. It begins in a high comic pitch, showing a family mired in long term, intractable conflicts, overseen by a wheelchair-bound tyrannical father, whose motto is “Never a kind word.” The original family room, which seems like a Sartrean hell of enforced intimacy, mysteriously empties out, only to be repopulated with figures who have shed their identities, “reincarnated” as creatures who see differently.
Tilly Mouse lives under an opera house and dreams of performing onstage. But when anybody sees her, they scream and run away. With determination, imagination and help from her friends, Tilly proves that even a mouse can be a star! Featuring music from Carmen and Gianni Schicchi. Performed around the world - from Scotland to Sudan - including two Off-Broadway runs! 4 STARS “Bravo to Melanie Gall for creating Opera Mouse, a Fringe show that's equally satisfying for kids and their accompanying adults” - CBC 4 STARS - Broadway Baby
Fringe fave TJ Dawe (A Canadian Bartender at Butlin’s, Roller Coaster, Medicine, Marathon, The Slipknot, Labrador and many others) tells about being a theatre student, sexual anxiety and discovering beautiful music. "A master monologist" - Toronto Star "A flawless performer" - Charleston City Paper "Dawe has storytelling down to a fine art" - Vancouver Sun "A natural and prodigious gift for storytelling" - Montreal Gazette This is TJ's 16th Winnipeg Fringe, and 115th Fringe overall.
Everything changes. From celestial objects light years away to the cells in your body. It's inevitable, but that doesn't make it any less terrifying. As a massive star evolves and grows, Holly and Jane fall for each other, and Valerie unpacks her own real-life anxiety about dying. The cosmic echoes the atomic in this obituary for romances, supernovas and the fear of death itself. An ending doesn't always mean The End. 5 STARS “Cotic masterfully weaves the personal with the profound” - Theatre in London
Each night, Outside Joke presents a brand new, fully improvised musical that will leave you wishing you could buy the soundtrack! "Outside Joke is an improv force to be reckoned with." - Winnipeg Free Press, 4 STARS "This formidably talented troupe hits all the right notes, and keeps the audience laughing out loud." - CBC, 4 STARS "If Outside Joke is the future of improv, then the genre is in good hands." - CBC, 4 STARS
Ever been to summer camp? Took a shit in the woods and wiped using pages from your guidebook? Speared the patriarchy on a hot dog stick and toasted it over a roaring fire? After getting lost in the woods, a multi-badged Woodpecker and a wildernessly-inept Beaver must set aside their differences to find their way home. JOIN US for an adventure through the untamed forest of sex, puppets, bushcraft... and campfire songs!
Sick of the bullshit? Feel awash in spin, lies, propaganda? Don’t worry, a German is here to sort it all out. Laugh away the madness as award-winning German comedian Paco Erhard cuts through the BS and examines just how the heck we got here, from ancient Persia all the way to this Golden Age of Bullshit. Hilarious for absolutely everybody!* *Terms and conditions apply. 5 STARS “hilarious” - Edinburgh Guide 4 STARS “fast-paced, funny, edgy” - Herald Sun 4 1/2 STARS “intelligent, political, smutty and genius” - Adelaide Advertiser
A lonely hunter meets a mysterious and powerful fox woman. Before the West cultivated hatred of the wild, there was a love affair. Flamenco artists, dancer Denise Yeo and guitarist Gareth Owen retell this Siberian myth through hypnotic and improvised speech and rhythm. “There’s virtuosity to burn… Owen plays like he has a hundred fingers… Let it wash over you.” - The Georgia Strait “Yeo is a spitfire, uncontainable in her passionate delivery, staccato feet blurring in ferocious movement." - Janis La Couvée, theatre reviewer
Adapted from the Harlem Renaissance novel Passing, the play follows Irene and Clare, two women of colour who were childhood friends until they parted ways when Clare chooses to pass as white and Irene chooses to embrace her African-American heritage. Their paths cross again as adults. Irene learns that Clare has never revealed her black ancestry to her white husband. Irene is critical of Clare’s choices to first deny and now attempt to reclaim her black identity. When a party is crashed and Clare’s racial heritage is revealed, tragedy strikes.
PETER AND THE STARCATCHER is the story of how an orphan boy came to be known as Peter Pan. Two villainous captains, Black Stache and Bill Slank, square off in a battle between two ships. Lord Aster is a starcatcher who must protect the earth from the power of star stuff. Embracing the style of story theatre with physical gags and hilarious puns, the actors play everything from pirates and mermaids to mollusks. This is a journey of the imagination to far-off places and tropical islands.
Come along on a whirlwind fairy tale, fantasy, adventure featuring Medieval characters and folklore. Meet a gifted prince, his faithful servant, an unusual Queen and a meddling witch. Discover the 'real story' behind the mysterious disappearance of the Kingdom's ruler, the Prince's father, and their King. Music Director, Composer, Keyboardist: Rob Lindey. Set and Graphic Designer: Nicholas Burns. Stage Manager...TBA
"Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together." - Elizabeth Taylor Ruby Woo? Rouge Allure? #4 Brown? Put on your best colour and enjoy a lipstick-loaded spectacular that takes a dark turn into the world of societal pressure and behaviour towards mental health. Quoting famous thoughts on lipstick, three of Winnipeg's own talented professional dance artists expertly combine text and movement in this hilariously entertaining and insightful performance.
“The generation that fought hardest to come out, is going back in… to survive.” - Gen Silent - LGBTQ2S+ aging documentary. Winner of 2019 Winnipeg Fringe Festival New Play Contest
In this “choose your own adventure” show, join Hannah, Aiden and Brett on their quest to obtain their final Adventure Scouts badge! They need your help navigating their way as they embark on this last quest before summer ends. Help guide the Adventure Scouts in this interactive voyage that focuses on equality, diversity and compassion. Sing along with the characters and even take home an interactive program that offers hours of entertainment!
Quirky (adjective) - characterized by peculiar or unexpected traits. From the son of the creator of MIDDLEhood comes a mostly-true retelling of young Zeglinski’s autistic life. A hilarious and heartwarming one-man show featuring mammoths, an elusive salamander, first kisses and schoolyard bullies! “You were so charismatic and FUNNY. You got so many great laughs, not just from the script, but from your ability to listen and react in a funny, deadpan way. I was so proud of you!” - Sam Mullins, creator of Tinfoil Dinosaur (5 STARS)
THE RIGHT TO BREATHE is a collection of dance, narrative and poetry. Through the journey of hip hop, this collection takes a stand against systemic racism, militarization and economic greed. A resistance to injustice in all its forms. Ultimately, The Right To Breathe is a celebration of peace and justice for all!
An impoverished miller seeks a better life for his only daughter by arranging her marriage to a wealthy stranger. She wants to help her family, but something wicked lurks in the woods where her bridegroom lives... Chimera Theatre brings back their dark adaptation of this classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale through puppetry and physical theatre that “had even skeptical audience members on the edge of their seats and scared.” - Kamloops This Week “If adult, horror, puppet, folktales delight you, then this is a show for you.” - The YYScene
A quiet man meets a stranger in the park, one who seems all too eager for his company. It isn't long before the two start a competitive game of chess, only to see it transform into a larger mind game of its own. This original black-comedy production is making its debut at the Winnipeg Fringe Festival.
5 STARS "Simply beautiful. No, stunning" - Calgary Is Awesome If the Japanese Internment of the Second World War didn’t happen, I wouldn’t be alive. Dance, theatre and humour combine to unravel one of Canada’s darkest decisions. In this BEST OF FEST winner, a heartwarming true story is delivered with "genuine humour and compassion." "...says more with the movement of his fingers than many actors do with reams of dialogue." - Calgary Herald "Storytelling at its finest; sophisticated, meaningful, moving, and humorous." - Ottawa Storytellers
Jolene Bailie returns with an ensemble cast of acclaimed dancers, visual work, and humor. Previous productions: "fiercely athletic show, nail-biting lifts and leaps...” - dance current. A plethora of 5 STAR reviews, including: Edmonton Journal, Edmonton Sun, Vancouver Sun, Saskatoon StarPhoenix and CBC Manitoba. 208 past Fringe performances, Best of Fest awards, sold-out shows. Visionary choreography and a brilliantly committed cast come together to celebrate possibilities, life, and the ever winding journey.
A hungover captain, two "unique" crew members and a petulant God wielding a mean trident are on a collision course. And you thought the walking on water bit belonged to just one dude! Join us for thunderstorms, killer waves and the odd game of chance or two when we start Setting Sail!
The company that brought you last year’s sold-out hit 2 Sherlock Adventures returns with a thrilling new adaptation of Sign of Four: an exciting melodrama featuring Holmes, Watson, one-legged men, eccentric dogs, plucky heroines, poison darts, fabulous treasure and a high-speed boat chase down a darkened Thames. Fringe at its finest!
The Sidetrack Bandits are back for their third consecutive Fringe show, cleverly named Sidetrack Bandits: 3. Their particular brand of high-energy character-driven comedy toes the line between playful and absurd. At the core, the Sidetrack Bandits are really just a group of friends trying to make each other laugh and they'd love to take you along for the ride. Buy a ticket, plant your butt in a seat, sit back and enjoy the ride. We’d love to see you there!
Rookie FBI agent Clarice Starling matches wits with the brilliant but insane cannibal Hannibal Lecter to catch the serial killer Buffalo Bill. Clarice faces her own demons while racing the clock to unlock Lecter’s clues before another innocent girl is killed and skinned by Buffalo Bill. This naughty satire features a singing chorus of floppy-eared lambs narrating the action as Buffalo Bill gleefully dances while kidnapping hapless Catherine Martin. Even Dr. Lecter sings about the life he’d like to lead someday outside the prison walls.
He’s been singing ever since his grandmother and star-struck mother put him on stage as a child. As an acclaimed fingerpicking troubadour and storyteller, music has been his salvation, his guitar his best friend. Suddenly now, in 2019, he’s faced with a monumental, life-altering decision (cochlear implant – what the heck is that?). Do not miss what may be this 21-time BEST OF FRINGE/5 STARS pick’s final musical performances, featuring a set of outstanding new stories laced with a few old favourites. Directed by Mark Kenward
...or a Legally Blonde Pretty Woman Dirty Danced on the Beaches while writing a Notebook on the Titanic. Following a successful Off-Broadway run in New York City, the same team that brought you One Woman Sex and the City: a Parody of Love Friendship and Shoes is back with another parody extravaganza! This time, they tackle your favourite chick flicks. Written by "Fringe God" TJ Dawe and Kerry Ipema (Sex Ed). Don't miss this one, if you do... it will be a big mistake... Big. HUGE!
Two very different women, Mia and Ingrid, discover the one thing they have in common: their anxiety. Together they meditate, yoga, dance and struggle their way through their problems - because it's got to be better than talking about it. From the creators of: Filter This "One of the best things I've seen at Winnipeg Fringe" - Ace Burpee One Date City 4 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press
A pajama-clad unicyclist careens on stage, suitcase in tow. Unpacking, he introduces audience to a whimsical world of clothespin towers, erratic toothbrushes and gargantuan grins. Juggling with energy and presence, Janoah “anygoodjokes?” constructs a playful performing-partner puppet from piles of props. SpinS frames skill through physical challenge, fashioning hilarious precariousness that is joyful and open. Objects and audience swirl into chaotic creation in this solo circus, recounting the learning and laughter of an itinerant performer.
Places, please! The show is about to begin, the actors are ready to perform... and… wait, that’s you! The spotlight’s on you in this comedic love story, with the audience playing all the roles. When the lights go up, you go on. Brought to you by Winnipeg Fringe favourite Shelby Bond, creator of One Man Back to the Future, Shark Weak and People Pleaser. Conceived at The Royal Central School of Speech & Drama in London, Spotlight is part immersive theatre, part interactive farce and completely hilarious.
But if he were, his obituary would read: “Here lies Stephen Hopwood. Dead at 40, having achieved nothing. He leaves behind his only love, Anna (who did not love him back), a legacy of regrets and a vast collection of odd socks.” Directed by Alan MacKenzie (ImproVision) and Matthew Stacey. Featuring Leith Clark, Luke Falconer and Shawn Kowalke (The Horrible Friends), Giovanni Navarro and Alexis Silver.
Though the characters may be familiar, each of your favourite storybook fables is uproariously derailed in this adaptation of Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith's quintessential children's book of fractured fairy tales. Everything from "Chicken Little" to "The Gingerbread Man" gets a complete makeover. Fun music and witty narration accompany the likes of ineloquent giants, sassy barnyard animals, colossal cow pies and enough stinky cheese to go around.
Well, I guess by default I'd be the storyteller, a farmer taking to the stage. And the seed? Let's let that one be found in our imagination and the caring hands of a gardener, and the telling of the story, for every story contains a seed, just as every seed contains a story. All this and much, much more can be found at the Winnipeg Fringe, but you already knew that! Thanks for stopping by.
The Strokes of Genius (Dianna Rasing & Mitch Krohn) survived strokes in 2016. Their sketch comedy and short video clips, all based on ACTUAL experiences, poke fun at health care, rehab, accessibility and stroke effects. They say, “It’s better to laugh about it than to cry about it.” If you think it’s inappropriate, you may be right! Besides, aren't we all just a little bit brain-damaged…?
We at 9box cannot reveal all we want about this variety revue. This is for your own protection. When mounting a show that offers a virtual baker's dozen of single items - 76, to be exact, in only 75 minutes - we have to cushion all audience members against excess excitement, and trickle out details to tantalize - but not blow - your minds. Let's just say that thrills, chills and octopi will likely be involved. The octopi are fictional - no seafood allergies apply. There are door prizes as well, so hold on to your seats and your bags firmly.
JD and the Sunshine Band take you on a musical adventure through the strange landscapes of Winnipeg and beyond. Part informative, part deformative.
Following the success of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (2018), Missed Cue Productions returns to the Winnipeg Fringe. Looking for love in all the wrong places - Bryan Myskiw and Kenna Simpson star in Tell Me On A Sunday, a story that relates to every young adult who has been in love and started a career in a new city. Featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber's beloved songs, Tell Me on a Sunday and Take That Look Off Your Face, this 1979 classic has been reimagined for its 40th anniversary in 2019.
Let’s Talk About Sex, Maybe? Or, maybe not? After having radically different experiences with Sex Ed, Lindsay and Phoebe try to figure out exactly what they were supposed to learn, why they didn’t and where they go from here! A fun, sometimes silly, sometimes serious look at all the things they wish they’d known before the Big Event. When it would have been…you know…useful. From the company who brought you No Belles (5 STARS – Edmonton Sun, Broadway Baby, The StarPhoenix) and 73 Seconds (4½ STARS – Winnipeg Free Press).
From the creators of the Off-Broadway hit Flight (5 STARS - WFP, “Ingenious” - NY Times), THREE brings acrobatics up close. Experience sweat, laughter and trust as three acrobats test the limits of human connection. A kinetic theatre experience packed with adrenaline and a slick soundtrack. 5 STARS - The List “A low-tech Cirque du Soleil” - LAist “Astonishing acrobatic theatre" - Broadway Baby “Awe-inspiring, surprisingly simple, and unconventionally spectacular” - Weekend Notes WINNER Best of Fest (4x), NOMINATED Best Show (Edinburgh)
The Electronic Gospel is a musical providing a front row seat into the mind of a born-again believer. Sonny is a train wreck. God extends an offer to help him... on one condition, He must be resurrected and spend eternity as a fool. Post resurrection Sonny realizes He is not happy with the deal. Relentlessly railing against God and man, Sonny's dark side takes over as he struggles to find the Light. He starts his journey telling his story with dynamic electronic music.
THROWBACK - a retro circus extravaganza! This variety and circus show embraces the unique culture of the pre-millennium world. A generation born with one foot in an evolving digital landscape and one foot grass-stained and sprinkler-wet, who now push the world to new artistic, technological and physical limits. This is a fun and poignant look at pop culture told through incredible acrobatics, circus and comedy! Featuring artists who have been awarded Best Circus at the Adelaide & Perth Fringes, and People's Choice at festivals across Canada.
The Second World War is raging. Deep in the desert, a young physicist toils on a top secret project. At great risk to himself, he conducts experiments in effort to perfect the most devastating weapon known to history. He hopes his work will bring lasting peace but a fantastical friend from his childhood returns with difficult questions and offers him glimpses into a larger Universe.
Farmer James has lost his bees, there's only corn gruel to eat and the townspeople (the audience) have arrived chanting "there's no good food, we're in a bad mood!" This award-winning cautionary tale engages with humour and music while inspiring wonder and action to help pollinators. "... guileless storytelling and sweet slapstick to charm an audience of any age. They utilize puppetry, clowning, juggling, song, movement and audience participation to teach and entertain their charges...” – Boston Arts Review. Bee-u-tiful!
An inspirational true story of overcoming life's challenges told with story, music and humour. Three awards at the 2019 NYC Frigid Fringe. "a gem in New York City's off-off Broadway scene" - The Paper, NYC "Funny, beautiful and deeply affecting" - Vancouver Presents "You should absolutely see this show. It was raw, authentic and beautiful. " - Theatre Addicts, Vancouver
Nobody said traversing the Oregon Trail would be easy… but nobody said it would be this hard, either. On a trail where thieves constantly steal your oxen, racial stereotypes abound and everyone has dysentery, how do you keep colonization alive? A co-pro with Vault Projects: 4 STARS Matt & Ben 4 STARS How to Talk to Human Beings 4 STARS zahgidiwin/love 4 STARS Riot Resist Revolt Repeat 4 ½ STARS Women of the Fur Trade (TO Fringe) 5 STARS Little Red Currently in development with the PTE Emerging Playwrights Unit.
The Prayer Processing Array has gone down, and this ignites an escalating series of crises on Earth and in Heaven. Compounding these troubles, Jesus is tired of sacrificing Himself, the Holy Spirit is frustrated with living in obscurity, and the Holy Father's anger is flaring out of control. Can these three mighty personages of the Trinity resolve their differences, or is all of Creation doomed? More important, how could we possibly poke fun at such revered figures?
Twelfth Night tells the story of the siblings Viola and Sebastian (played by real-life siblings Brooke and Zach Bowser), who are shipwrecked and separated, with Viola landing in Illyria. In this unfamiliar land, she finds herself mixed up in a love triangle involving the country's ruler, Duke Orsino, and the woman he pines for, the Countess Olivia. If you're a fan of Shakespeare or are looking for a lighthearted romantic comedy involving cross-dressing, mistaken identities and yellow socks, then this Fringe show is for you!
6X Outstanding Performer winner and 2018 Vivian Robinson Award nominee (for her Off-Broadway portrayal of the iconic Josephine Baker in Josephine), Tymisha Harris returns backed by a jazz trio to share personal stories and sing from the songbook of La Baker in this world premiere cabaret.
The sold-out five-star hit of 2007 returns! John D. Huston plays a Dutch librarian tracking a shadowy patron who returned a book a century overdue. The librarian’s quest, covering decades and countries, follows clues left by the mysterious miscreant known only as “A.”. Now his search has brought him here. 5 STARS - NOW Magazine Toronto, Edmonton Journal, Edmonton Sun 4 1/2 STARS - Eye Magazine Toronto 4 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press Sold-out runs in Winnipeg and Edmonton.
In a single week, Lea had sex for the first time while also discovering she wasn't just into men. The year following her sexual unearthing involved a number of physical interactions and countless Google searches: how does one have her hair pulled? What if my legs can't bend that way? How do I know if I'm queer enough? Unsatisfied with what she finds, Lea sits down to create her own vlog to guide other sexually explorative folks through their uncertainties, in hopes that she can give someone the straightforward answer she never received.
From the team that brought you Will Eno's Thom Pain and Annie Baker's The Flick. Featuring Ivan Henwood and Jen Robinson. What are we here for? Is time a friend or an enemy? Do we all eventually end up in the same place, but take different routes to get there? This funny, moving and thought-provoking play by award-winner Will Eno challenges the notion of what really matters and recognizes the importance of life’s simple pleasures. “Glowingly dark” and “profoundly moving” - NY Times "A work of humor, humanity and grace" - Variety
Physicist, fugitive, pioneer. On Christmas Eve 1938, two refugees from the Nazis walk out into the Swedish snow. Sat on a tree trunk, they make a shocking scientific discovery. And the world changes forever. From the creator of The Inventor of All Things: 5 STARS CBC, Winnipeg Free Press, Edmonton Journal How did a shy Austrian, who graduated high school at 23, open so many doors and achieve so much? Jem Rolls tells the life of a remarkable and forgotten woman. “I will have nothing to do with a bomb.”
5 STARS "Funny and fresh...Tears of laughter" - Toronto Sun. Last year's sold-out sensation is back! From producer Mike Delamont and the writers of Three Dead Trolls In A Baggie comes the funniest history lesson of a lifetime! A young boy hates Canada until the ghost of Pierre Burton appears in his classroom and takes him on a tour of Canadian history, from the tennis ball battlefields of York to a Laura Secord mega-musical, all in a Birchbark Time Canoe! Starring Fringe superstars Wes Borg, Morgan Cranny, Rod Peter Jr. and Mike Delamont.
A compilation of contemporary dances themed around the power of water and performed by the incredibly athletic Viva Dance Company. Set to a soundtrack of modern rock and danced with equal parts ferocity and grace, this show is sure to fill your cup. Viva Dance Company earned a FIVE-STAR rating from CBC at the 2015 Winnipeg Fringe.
“Down with children! Do them in! Boil their bones and fry their skin!” A wicked take on Roald Dahl's tale of action, bravery, mice and evil witches who want nothing more than to sqvish, svollop and squelch children. Grandmama has taught Boy how to protect himself from real witches but can anything prepare him for meeting the Grand High Witch? Brought to life by the same company who gave you last year’s Tumbling After (4 1/2 STARS – Winnipeg Free Press).
You won’t believe your eyes! You can’t believe those thighs! The 5 Star Revue is a deep-fried platter of entertainment. Fatt Matt’s hilarious banter and massive stage presence make him a crowd favourite across the globe. Step on up and sit right down – THE FUNNEST FLEXIBILITY YOU WILL EVER SEE. The world's fattest contortionist is more then bends. He's a multi-discipline performer who has toured with The Jim Rose Circus, among others, and featured in advertisements and TV shows including The Tonight Show, Gong Show and Canada’s Got Talent.
World-famous illusionist Brett Sparks brings his show to the Winnipeg Fringe. Or rather, lack thereof. After a successful tour in Zanzibar, Brett’s props have yet to return. They haven’t cleared customs! So what does an illusion show look like without illusions? Brett and his stagehand better figure it out fast! After all, the show must go on and he’s under contract! Acts from Worst Case Magic have been performed for a sold-out audience at the Winnipeg Circus Club Annual Showcase! Produced by Trick-E-Productions and Hogan’s Circus.
Richard Ellman is trying to solve a mystery. In 1917, a young bride on her honeymoon suddenly fell into a trance and began receiving messages from beyond the grave. Where did the voices come from, and what did she believe? The newlyweds were W.B. Yeats and his wife George. Yeats’s Ghosts tells the true story of the poet’s doomed passion for Maud Gonne, his improbable marriage to George Hyde-Lees, the strange events of 1917 and the poetry it inspired. From the writer/director of Let Me Freeze Your Head (4 STARS - CBC)
Based on the classic gothic horror story The Yellow Wallpaper, Yellow Den is a theatre show that is part play, part projection. A woman confined to one room for her health finds her perception getting clearer and clearer as the room becomes her only world, and the things that are permanent - like place and time - become less and less tethered. You'll have to be there to feel it. Onstage Seating - NOT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
Five zombie apocalypse survivors are trapped in a basement. After successfully escaping the zombies (for now), they have a new task: to survive living with one another. Living in the basement together for months, these survivors encounter many obstacles. Often comedic, sometimes dramatic, for better or worse, they are in this together.
From the company that brought you Woody Allen's Central Park West. 4 STARS Peter, a publishing executive, is reading on his favourite bench in New York City’s Central Park. Suddenly he is approached by a stranger named Jerry, who makes his entrance with the announcement “I’ve been to the zoo!” Jerry is intent on claiming the bench for himself and proceeds to probe deep into Peter’s life. Come see Edward Albee's updated classic!