ACCESSIBLE SHOWS

Award-winning magician Greg Wood and his wife Oonaugh, a dynamic comedy duo, present a fast-paced, hilarious and mind-blowing magic show for all ages. They’re joined by two assistants for amazing illusions, clever comedy and audience participation that keeps the whole family laughing and gasping in wonder. This is more than magic — it’s pure family fun! Memories will be made and everyone leaves smiling. 5 STARS “If you’re looking for a show the whole family will enjoy, illusionist Greg Wood is your go-to guy.” — CBC

Three contemporary dance solos that offer introspective reflections on the intricacies of self-discovery, connection, and routine. Solitude Salsa examines the tension between loneliness and freedom, revealing our deepest desires, fears, and quirks in moments of solitude. These Things Take Time reflects on life’s gradual unfolding—connection, loss, setbacks, creating, rebuilding, and preparing a meal. Note tracks the spatial compositions that come from moving through routines, and asks how we are connected (or not) to these repetitive motions.

The Money Fish, a zany, acrobatic trio of fish-like synchronized swimmers, have been thrust on stage to try and figure out what to do with all these balls. Set to an array of the most recognizable classical music, the Money Fish parody and pay tribute to ballet, opera, contemporary dance, acrobatics, silent film and anything else that might take itself too seriously.

The Winnipeg Free Press has run amok, reviewing each and every Fringe show over the past two decades without consequence or recourse. Now, it's their turn... again. In this refurbished work that debuted at last year's Winnipeg Fringe, Benji Rothman once again takes the Winnipeg Free Press to task. In this (mostly) new, (hopefully) hilarious 45-minute show, Rothman dives deep into their past and exposes their faulty journalism, imbalanced reporting and, of course, embarrassing typos.

Death of a Salesman meets Mr. Bean. A lonely office worker squeezes through a portal in their bathroom mirror and goes on a quest for the meaning of life in this surreal physical comedy. The mundane becomes extraordinary as each vignette and dance takes you deeper into a whimsical world of illusion. The Routine will leave you in stitches and remind you of the magic within. 5 STARS "Mind-Blowing Mime… The Routine isn’t just a performance; it’s a wake-up call wrapped in comedy." — The LIST UK 5 STARS — Edmonton Journal

Where Does Bob Belong? is a hilarious one-man show about the adventures of a clown and his best friend Bob, a life-sized puppet. After the clown risks everything to save Bob’s life, an unlikely friendship is born. Their bromance quickly blossoms into romance, and all seems well until the courtship takes a dark turn… Now, get ready for the most absurdly heartfelt, charmingly violent and disgustingly seductive Fringe show this year!

Join Duane Forrest on an acoustic journey through the roots of reggae to the global influence of Bob Marley. Experience acoustic renditions of legendary reggae songs that have reshaped countless lives, including Duane's own. From the origin of reggae to Marley's transcendent legacy, immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and transformative power of this iconic music. "With Bob Marley: How Reggae Changed The World, Fool’s Paradise has unearthed one of the most life-affirming shows of the Fringe" - Mix 102.3

Award-winning magician Greg Wood and his wife Oonaugh, a dynamic comedy duo, present a fast-paced, hilarious and mind-blowing magic show for all ages. They’re joined by two assistants for amazing illusions, clever comedy and audience participation that keeps the whole family laughing and gasping in wonder. This is more than magic — it’s pure family fun! Memories will be made and everyone leaves smiling. 5 STARS “If you’re looking for a show the whole family will enjoy, illusionist Greg Wood is your go-to guy.” — CBC

I Fucked Up and I'm Sorry is the story of Dr. Daniel Miyagi, a famous self-help guru who is obsessed with Cobra Kai and The Karate Kid, and who recently had to deal with a viral online video that appeared to show him losing his temper in a road-rage incident. This is a political satire that is both a comedy and a tragedy. Come and be a part of this classroom experience and meet his obsessed fans: the people who still love him, no matter what he does or says. Audience participation is optional!

Three contemporary dance solos that offer introspective reflections on the intricacies of self-discovery, connection, and routine. Solitude Salsa examines the tension between loneliness and freedom, revealing our deepest desires, fears, and quirks in moments of solitude. These Things Take Time reflects on life’s gradual unfolding—connection, loss, setbacks, creating, rebuilding, and preparing a meal. Note tracks the spatial compositions that come from moving through routines, and asks how we are connected (or not) to these repetitive motions.

The Money Fish, a zany, acrobatic trio of fish-like synchronized swimmers, have been thrust on stage to try and figure out what to do with all these balls. Set to an array of the most recognizable classical music, the Money Fish parody and pay tribute to ballet, opera, contemporary dance, acrobatics, silent film and anything else that might take itself too seriously.

Fedor Ikelaar, one of the world’s most prolific touring comedians, is back! Born in The Netherlands, Fedor’s razor-sharp stand-up blends cultural insights, hilarious misadventures and a healthy dose of self-reflection. His globetrotting adventures challenge stereotypes, flip assumptions on their heads, and make you rethink what you take for granted. With a fresh, high-energy style that has captivated audiences in 50 countries. Fedor’s new show is packed with big laughs, unexpected truths and one truly unforgettable ride. Buckle up.

"Stand up and siiinnnggg!" A Pete Seeger Tribute for all ages, exploring the many years and songs of America's greatest folk singer. Through actual footage, live banjo and guitar, Woody's Choice invites you to join your voice with the collective in a sing-along you will long remember! You will leave the show inspired with the true meaning of "Freedom" of the heart.

The Winnipeg Free Press has run amok, reviewing each and every Fringe show over the past two decades without consequence or recourse. Now, it's their turn... again. In this refurbished work that debuted at last year's Winnipeg Fringe, Benji Rothman once again takes the Winnipeg Free Press to task. In this (mostly) new, (hopefully) hilarious 45-minute show, Rothman dives deep into their past and exposes their faulty journalism, imbalanced reporting and, of course, embarrassing typos.

Death of a Salesman meets Mr. Bean. A lonely office worker squeezes through a portal in their bathroom mirror and goes on a quest for the meaning of life in this surreal physical comedy. The mundane becomes extraordinary as each vignette and dance takes you deeper into a whimsical world of illusion. The Routine will leave you in stitches and remind you of the magic within. 5 STARS "Mind-Blowing Mime… The Routine isn’t just a performance; it’s a wake-up call wrapped in comedy." — The LIST UK 5 STARS — Edmonton Journal

Seasons of Love is a dance journey set to timeless music, featuring selections of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, recomposed by Max Richter. Like the turning of the year, love moves through cycles. Warmth and light, storm and stillness. It lifts us, transforms us, and leaves its mark. But nothing beautiful comes without a cost. Through movement and dance, this performance explores the ever-shifting nature of love, where joy and sorrow are inseparable and every ending holds the promise of something new.

In this family-friendly magical parody, Mary Poppins does her best to help Michael Banks overcome the pitfalls of modern life. Presented with the incredible talents of Canadian magician Lisa Krol and Las Vegas magician Jordan Rooks. Perfectly planned chaos is packed with surprises, laughter, and of course, magic!

Where Does Bob Belong? is a hilarious one-man show about the adventures of a clown and his best friend Bob, a life-sized puppet. After the clown risks everything to save Bob’s life, an unlikely friendship is born. Their bromance quickly blossoms into romance, and all seems well until the courtship takes a dark turn… Now, get ready for the most absurdly heartfelt, charmingly violent and disgustingly seductive Fringe show this year!

A family man robs a thief of a ton of money. Martin Dockery’s edge-of-your-seat thriller, set to a propulsive soundtrack, is a knuckle-biting story of suspense, humour and horror! Like the love child of Breaking Bad, A Simple Plan and Fargo, this is a tale of small town greed, deception and an ever-expanding web of lies. Recent shows include: TRUTH, The Stakeout, Every Good Story Ends With One and The Sex Life of Butterflies.

Acclaimed storyteller Nisha Coleman spins a yarn of nail-biting, heart-wrenching, darkly comedic adventures as she gets locked in a Madrid train station trying to rescue a cat; is rescued by the Princess Bride's Westley while busking in Halifax; and comes face-to-face with a suicidal teenager in Montreal. Through these true-life stories, Coleman delves boldly into themes of mental illness and suicide, and attempts to “solve the problem of living” by learning to be alright with being alive.

Achtung, baby! The Cold War is hot again. Two-time CBC Critics’ Pick and repeat Jenny Award winner Devon More (Flute Loops, Hits like a Girl) returns with a rare and rhythmic portrait of Berlin. History and hijinks collide where East meets West in this “masterful blend of musical storytelling” (Plank Magazine). Cycle all 100 miles of Berlin’s infamous wall in her captivating cabaret. Fresh off her solo album release, Devon builds her hypnotic wall of sound with multi-instrumental live-looping. “This show is a work of art.” (Radio CJLO Montreal)

Drawing on his Southern childhood, Jim Loucks tells the story of a small-town policeman, based loosely on his Granddaddy, who is haunted by his shooting of a man in the line of duty. As he nears the end of his life, he seeks redemption through teaching his grandson to respect life and to respect himself. A rollicking, passionate solo show of storytelling and music in the American South, The Biscuiteater is a powerful piece about guns, death and dignity. From the solo performer who brought you last year’s Booger Red.

Join Duane Forrest on an acoustic journey through the roots of reggae to the global influence of Bob Marley. Experience acoustic renditions of legendary reggae songs that have reshaped countless lives, including Duane's own. From the origin of reggae to Marley's transcendent legacy, immerse yourself in the soulful melodies and transformative power of this iconic music. "With Bob Marley: How Reggae Changed The World, Fool’s Paradise has unearthed one of the most life-affirming shows of the Fringe" - Mix 102.3

Holly M. Brinkman (A Woman's Guide to Peeing, My Body of Work and PackAnimals) is back with a new improvised show. It’s Whose Line meets 50 Shades of Grey! Brinkman is a talented performer celebrated for her captivating stage presence. With years of research reading erotic fiction, she brings her sex-pertise to the stage. Prepare for a sultry and hilarious tramp through your favourite bodice rippers and fairy smut. Join her for an improvised romp through your naughtiest fantasies.

5 STARS “Check it out. Your brain will thank you.” - CBC 4 STARS “Bailey’s sharp and satisfying…” - Winnipeg Free Press “Bailey subtly, skillfully braids the stories of the Internet’s inventors with his own experience of going viral… Go, learn, laugh, take hope.” - The Georgia Straight The hit solo show Brain Machine is finally returning to Winnipeg, where CBC Manitoba named it one of the top picks of the 2018 Fringe. From the multiple award-winning creator of The Adversary and Me, the Queen, and a Coconut.

Friendships can be complicated. Friendships with people who live thousands of miles away from you can be even more complicated. On the chatroom website CliqYou, seven internet friends experience the highs and lows typical of all friend groups – the laughter, the grudges, the crushes, the rivalries, the inside jokes and the seemingly pointless conversations – while trying to hide the most vulnerable parts of themselves behind the safety and security of the screen.

Late-night comedy every night of the Fringe! Nothing held back in this anything-goes comedy show featuring a rotating lineup of the best stand-up comedians at the festival. All with the help of your suggestions for joke topics that will be pulled from a bucket, on the spot. Wild, unpredictable, dirty, fun!

"Can I plausibly pursue this?" Aida Cupcake is hitting operatic highlights and high notes in this autobiographical revue about finding your voice and following your heart. 5 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press WINNER - Critic's Pick (Hamilton 2022) "Virtuoso solo performer" - The Calgary Herald

After a 14-year Fringe Festival hiatus, local playwright and producer Joel Passante (Retail - 4.5 STARS Winnipeg Sun) returns with a memoir. Growing up with ADHD, he discovered theatre as a way to cope with bullying but took time off from the arts community to raise a family. Plans didn't go as expected. Now he must regain the courage and the light he lost long ago to return to the thing that once made him happy. Performing.

5 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press “Exceptional” - CBC 5 STARS - Global News Canada Telegraph's #1 Theatre Pick - Edinburgh Fringe Based on Eleanor Ramrath Garner’s best-selling memoir, this 16X internationally award-winning adaptation - performed by her granddaughter, Ingrid Garner - details Eleanor’s youth as an American caught in Second World War Berlin. Punctuated with humour and accompanied by cinematic sound and video, Garner embodies her ancestors in this coming-of-age odyssey, delivering an account of war that is more relevant than ever.

Fakespeare performs the Bard’s work like you’ve never seen it before! This award-winning vaudevillian comedian condenses some of Shakespeare’s best-loved tragedies, energetically illustrating all the key points, characters and iconic dramatic moments in 30 minutes or less. This show is for Shakespeare fans and total illiterates alike. There’s something for everyone to enjoy with Fakespeare. If you’re not careful, you just might learn something. 5 STARS - Perth Fringe 5 STARS - Adelaide Fringe Adelaide Fringe People's Choice Award Winner

A sales rep pitches you on Existing! in this (mostly) comedy about pain. Part timeshare presentation, part pity party, part existential howl. Cincy Fringe Critics’ Pick and Encore Winner Atlanta Fringe Producer’s Choice Award “Triumphant…Witty and moving.” - Philadelphia Broad Street Review “A truly excellent actor… Bond had me in tears.” - Edmonton Journal "If Amy Sedaris and Jane Lynch had a baby, they still probably wouldn't be half as arresting as Linnea Bond in HROTASCY… An achingly funny plea for existence." - Orlando Weekly

Take a trip around Manitoba. From the 30,000 foot St. Adolphe snow maze to the Narcisse snake dens! After all, where else holds both the title of Slurpee Capital of the World and the Guinness Record for the most people simultaneously howling like wolves? Deanna Durbin, Terry Jacks and Burton Cummings are among the many homegrown stars, and Hockey Sticks features their music along with original songs and the stories that make this province unique. Starring Melanie Gall from 5 STAR shows Piaf & Brel, Ingenue and Toast to Prohibition.

This critically acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe hit is the loveable and unforgettable story of Jack, a kindergarten teacher in therapy with a broken heart after his boyfriend leaves him for the man from their threesome. 4 STARS “Genuinely very funny” - Gay Times 4 STARS "A gifted storyteller" - The Reviews Hub 4 STARS “Perfect delivery” - The List 4 STARS "A tearjerker in both senses" - West End Best Friend 4 STARS “Jack Goes to Therapy is a delight.” - The Recs

High-energy English performance poet. Has done more Fringe Festivals than anyone on earth this century. Brand new show featuring dumb comedy, smart comedy and dark tales. This is poetry as a singular mix of theatre, comedy, rhythm and movement. 45+ 5 STAR reviews. 200+ 4 STAR reviews 5 STARS "Dynamic, hilarious, riveting" - Winnipeg Free Press “Dynamic, riveting, hilarious” - Scotsman 5 STARS "Highest calibre… Genius." - Montreal Gazette "Absolute master… Bravo.” - Vancouver Sun

After a sold-out run in 2024, The Potato King returns with a new show. “The Potato King is king of big laughs. Hogg is a fantastically engaging performer, sort of like if Ricky Gervais had more energy.” - Edmonton Journal “Callback King could be a new moniker.” - Winnipeg Free Press “Part Rik Mayall, Eric Idle and Eddie Izzard, British comedy-actor Jimmy Hogg whips around the stage like an excitable Labrador puppy. Hysterically tangential.” - NOW Toronto “He's got a wickedly rapid, bitterly sharp, delivery.” - CBC

Late-in-Life Lesbian, directed by Lucy Gervais, is the award-nominated coming-out story of a comedian who gave up everything to live their best gay life. Shane Thevenot is a lesbian who went through a 32-year-long straight phase that included such terrifying events as growing up in the woods, surviving the pandemic in Montreal and U-hauling with a man. It is a hilarious, fresh take on the late-bloomer lesbian and non-binary experience that will leave audiences feeling like it’s never too late to be who they were always meant to be.

What if death didn't come easily? What if your family didn't know how to let you go? In this one-woman show, acclaimed storyteller/playwright Leigh-Anne Kehler (FemMennonite 5 STARS, Die! Shakespeare! Die! 4 STARS - CBC) tells the tale of her father's unique palliative journey. The show toured hospitals in the Toronto area and was invited to the National Arts Centre. Since then, Kehler has experienced her own brush with death. There will be comedy (her father was often funny), blended with bittersweet reality.

Stumble Upon A Story’s The Monkey’s Paw - based on the horror story written by W.W. Jacobs in 1902 - is an intimate theatrical and literary experience. You will be transported into the eerie tale of a wish gone wrong through masks, a stark set and an evocative soundscape that includes narration of the original story. Stumble Upon A Story creates collaborative storytelling experiences across Canada. Learn more at www.stumbleuponastory.art. Join us in Winnipeg this Fringe… if you dare.

Karin Fekko weaves tales of hilarity and tragedy through 17 years of keeping her MS a secret while partying, dating and trying to land her dream job. This show is about invisible disability, internalized ableism and big-time denial. Can we laugh about it? Karin thinks so. Join her as she marks 20 years since her MS diagnosis. Not hiding anymore, she’s on stage.

Fedor Ikelaar, one of the world’s most prolific touring comedians, is back! Born in The Netherlands, Fedor’s razor-sharp stand-up blends cultural insights, hilarious misadventures and a healthy dose of self-reflection. His globetrotting adventures challenge stereotypes, flip assumptions on their heads, and make you rethink what you take for granted. With a fresh, high-energy style that has captivated audiences in 50 countries. Fedor’s new show is packed with big laughs, unexpected truths and one truly unforgettable ride. Buckle up.

Be our guest! Local high school drama teacher Alli Perlov is back for a tale as old as time. Can she sing? Not really. Can she act? That’s debatable. Will you laugh? Oh… probably. Perlov plays dozens of characters, some human, some animal, and many objects, in a comedic exploration of Beauty and the Beast. In an homage to this brilliant musical adventure, through witty commentary and unstoppable energy, Perlov aims to entertain an audience that isn’t forced to be there like her students. 4 STARS “A fringey delight.” – Winnipeg Free Press

An autobiographical monologue about a gay, bullied small-town Ontario kid who found refuge in theatre. Told in two parts, Part I (Childhood) and Part II (Adulthood), you can enjoy individually, or in the wrong order! WINNER: Best Spoken Word show - Buxton (UK) Festival Fringe 2024 WINNER: Outstanding Original Work - On the Edge Fringe (North Bay, ON) 2023 4 STARS - Binge Fringe, Prague Fringe 2023 “The saddest, loveliest evocation of queer loneliness ... deeply self-affirming.” - Fringe Theatrefest (Barnstaple, UK) 2023

"Stand up and siiinnnggg!" A Pete Seeger Tribute for all ages, exploring the many years and songs of America's greatest folk singer. Through actual footage, live banjo and guitar, Woody's Choice invites you to join your voice with the collective in a sing-along you will long remember! You will leave the show inspired with the true meaning of "Freedom" of the heart.

WHAT IF FEMALE PLEASURE SPARKED A REVOLUTION? When fascism threatened humanity, Plan V emerged with a radical solution: Reverence. Join Mama V's underground Plan V gathering - a revolutionary act of resistance where intimate stories of joy and grief are shared in sacred defiance. As authorities close in, this multimedia comedy asks: What happens when pleasure becomes the ultimate protest? "Funny, empowering, and just slightly terrifying..." - BroadwayWorld “An absolute hoot...Entirely joyful and captivating." - Fest Magazine

A tale of love, loss and redemption… in professional wrestling? “Ooooooooh, yeah!” Randy “Macho Man” Savage enraged fans as he cheated, taunted opponents and hid behind his innocent manager Miss Elizabeth. Savage changed his ways and rose to be World Champion before paranoia, greed and the script took everything, including the love of his life. But it was all make-believe, wasn’t it? This one-man tribute to the “Macho Man” introduces the “Macho Manitoban” and will have you on the edge of your seat asking, “Does he get her back?”

It's the gay pirate romance adventure you’ve always secretly (or openly) wanted! Join the most fearsome fruit in all of France as he shares the sauciest exploits from his banned books, There's Seamen on the Poop-Deck!, and the rest of the six-part series, The Seamen Sexology. Guaranteed to offend even the sturdiest of sailors, it's the tantalizing tale everyone's talking about. (And the tale's not bad, either.)

Spookily accurate (if bonkers) audience readings, songs, 70s team games (including psychic Jenga) and prizes! The Singing Psychic reveals the songs in your heart, giving brilliantly bananas advice. But remember, she is always right. Edinburgh & Adelaide Fringe Festival sold-out run. Outstanding Comedy & Prix De Créativité Nominee - Montreal Fringe 4 STARS "Can work a crowd like no other." - Grumpy Gay Critic 4 STARS "A gloriously entertaining night out." - Female Arts 5 STARS "Completely bonkers in a good way." - London Theatre 1

Rob Malo, master storyteller, aka TiBert, ventures beyond his beloved family-friendly tales (TiBert le Voyageur 5 STARS and TiBert is Back! 5 STARS) to deliver something raw, ridiculous and remarkable. With humour, heart and a touch of the unexpected, he weaves real-life stories that will make you laugh, challenge your perceptions and leave you in awe. This made-for-adults show pushes the boundaries of storytelling — join him for an unforgettable evening, in English or français. (French shows: July 20 & 24)

5 SHOWS ONLY! This inspirational true story returns to the Winnipeg Fringe for the third time, after selling out its previous two runs. This show has thrilled international audiences including at the last two Edinburgh Fringe Festivals where it sold out both runs and received a Pick of the Fringe Award. This heartfelt, humorous and deeply moving hit celebrates resilience, music and the power of following your dreams. 5 STARS "Storytelling at its best." - Playbill 5 STARS - Winnipeg Free Press

Pick your path! The Spontaneous Shakespeare company returns to the Winnipeg Fringe with a brand-new Shakespearean epic, inspired by you! Will it be a heart-rending tragedy or an epic romance? Not even the cast knows! Mistaken identity, twins lost at sea, plots for revenge: Anything can happen in this all-new (made-up) classic from the Bard! 5 STARS "...a delightful celebration of what improv — and Shakespeare — can be." - Saskatoon StarPhoenix

France, 1981: The first socialist president is about to be elected and young Natacha is ready to implement her own political platform. But first, she has to take down the schoolyard bully, emasculate the rules of French grammar and make off with grandmother’s chocolate. If you think you know the limits of Jewish mothers, evil grandmothers and transcontinental lovers, meet Natacha Ruck’s family. This true tale of three generations of women, facing three world wars, is equal parts hilarious, shocking and zany.