So ho, by so ★★★★
This play took me by surprise. It’s a rich, layered theatre experience that delivers an emotional punch in only 15 minutes. So ho, by so takes the Jacobean comedy The Birth of Merlin as its starting point, but viewers don’t need to be familiar with either Arthurian legend or 17th century plays to be captivated by this show. Robin Hebb gives a moving performance as a powerfully grounded woman transformed by motherhood, a woman who is ultimately shunned by society (and her son) for her work in the sex trade. Powerful and poignant.
Trippin’ ★★★★★
When three consummate theatre artists like Mary-Colin Chisholm, Ann-Marie Kerr and Jackie Torrens come together to make a fringe show, you get something truly out of the ordinary. The seeming simplicity of this show—three stories developed around the theme of “trips” and told with touches of theatricality—belies the depth of the stories themselves. Engaging and thought-provoking with ample doses of humour.
Votive Dance ★★★½
Dance shows mystify me. I often leave impressed by the artistry and physicality I have witnessed, but struggle to know exactly what I am seeing. I’m usually at a loss for words to describe the experience. This show left me in just such a position. As someone who searches for a narrative in everything, I struggled unsuccessfully to find the story in each of the unconnected pieces. The dances ranged from pretty through meditative to intentionally and aggressively repetitive. I felt soothed, lulled, and disconcerted, all in one show.
The Magic of Michael James ★★★★
I am a sucker for magic. Magic, when done right, leaves me puzzled and entertained. Michael James definitely delivers magic, done right. His all-ages show covers classic illusions from card tricks to needle-swallowing and his friendly patter weaves them together to make a completely entertaining show. James’ own delight in magic is apparent and infectious. Highly recommended
The No Bull$#!% History of Canada ★★★½
Kyle Allatt has assembled a collection of bizarre facts about Canada which he delivers with the demeanor of a manic university professor and the mouth of a Stevedore. You’ve got to like a show where learning and laughter go hand in hand. Admittedly, this fast-paced power point journey through Canada’s history leans more towards laughter, but I did pick up some interesting facts, too.
Nostos ★★★★
I was intimidated by the descriptions in the program for this dance show. Phrases like “inspired by the internal build up of negative energy” made me think I would struggle to understand what I was seeing. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised by an accessible show oozing a youthful exuberance that electrified the audience. The dancing was high-energy and highly athletic. The music was a great mix of live and recorded. It hung together as a satisfying whole. Joyful!
This article appears in Sep 4-10, 2014.