🎭✨ Discover the top shows at the Calgary Fringe Festival! From murder cabarets to hilarious comedies, there's something for everyone. Don't miss out on these must-see performances! #Calgary #Alberta
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Best Bets for the Calgary Fringe Festival, Aug. 5-8
A Glimpse into Calgary Fringe Festival 2024
The Calgary Fringe Festival is back, bringing the city’s annual independent theatre extravaganza to life from August 2 to 10. This year’s festival features 20 in-person shows across various venues, including Festival Hall, the Fellowship Hall in the Lantern Church, Wood's Homes Theatre, the Rose Room in the Alexandra Centre, and the basement of the Next Page bookstore. For more details and tickets, visit tickets.calgaryfringe.ca.
Monday Highlights
Cabaret of Murder
Imagine a song-and-dance cabaret featuring the artistic works of infamous serial killers like John Wayne Gacy, Ted Bundy, Dennis Rader, David Koresh, and Charles Manson. Vancouver playwright Blair Moro has compiled songs, plays, and poetry by these notorious figures and given them to performers Bella Ciccone, Pauline Pino-Rubio, and Katie-Rose Connors. This intriguing show, described as a mashup of humor and terror, has already sold out at the Montreal, Vancouver, and Edmonton Fringe Festivals. Catch it at Festival Hall at 3:15 p.m.
Actually Unfactual: Funny Fictions by Paul Strickland
Paul Strickland, a Kentucky native and Fringe veteran, is known for his storytelling prowess, backed by guitar riffs and songs. His last visit to Calgary with "Ain’t True and Uncle False" was a hit, and he's back with more tall tales that sound remarkably true. Audience participation is a staple in Strickland’s shows, so be ready to join in the fun. This show is at 4:45 p.m. in the Rose Room at the Alexandra Centre.
Tuesday Picks
Another Mother
"Another Mother" explores the intense relationship between a mother and daughter through the lens of a woman, Cassidy, in labor. This poignant play dives into memories of Cassidy’s childhood with her workaholic mother and the contrasting paths they’ve taken in life. It’s a powerful examination of motherhood, sacrifice, and differing worldviews. The show runs at 7:15 p.m. at Wood's Homes Theatre.
Happy Go Lucky
Yanomi Shoshinz from Japan brings her unique puppetry to Calgary, presenting engaging stories that captivate both young and old. Her shows, likened to animated cartoons come to life, have been a North American Fringe favorite since 2007. "Happy Go Lucky" features simple yet profound narratives, including a two-faced woman and a modern-day Red Riding Hood. Experience this delightful performance at 8:15 p.m. in the Rose Room at the Alexandra Centre.
Wednesday Highlights
Jimmy Hogg: Potayto Potahto
British comedian Peter Stevens, through his alter ego Jimmy Hogg, shares hilarious and sometimes painful stories of his relationship blunders and online dating misadventures. From recounting his parents' love story to his worst online hookup, Hogg’s storytelling is both entertaining and relatable. Join him for a laughter-filled hour at 8:15 p.m. in the Rose Room at the Alexandra Centre.
seaMAN
A unique one-man horror comedy created by fringe veterans Amica Hunter and Bruce Costella, "seaMAN" tells the story of a salty old sailor with a vendetta against the ocean. The show is filled with hand-designed props, sight gags, puns, and oceanic hijinks, promising a hilarious and unpredictable journey. This performance takes place at 9 p.m. at Wood's Homes Theatre.
Thursday Highlights
Fire in the Meth Lab
Australian comedian Jon Bennett returns to Calgary Fringe with "Fire in the Meth Lab," a candid and humorous look at his older brother’s tumultuous life involving drug dealers, bikers, high-speed chases, and more. Bennett’s storytelling highlights how siblings can take drastically different paths despite a shared upbringing. Catch this compelling show at 5 p.m. in Festival Hall.
The Expiration Date
Boston native Judah Leblang, known for his autobiographical solo shows, returns with "The Expiration Date." This sequel to his previous hit, "It’s Now or Never: My Life in the Late Middle Ages," offers a humorous and poignant reflection on aging, identity, and life's unanswered questions. Leblang performs at 5:15 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at the Lantern Church.
Final Thoughts
The Calgary Fringe Festival offers a diverse lineup of performances that promise to entertain, provoke thought, and inspire. Whether you're drawn to the macabre cabaret of serial killers, the heartfelt tales of motherhood, or the comedic misadventures of online dating, there's something for everyone. Dive into the festival spirit, support local artists, and join the conversation about these unique theatrical experiences.
Actionable Takeaways
- Plan Ahead: With many shows likely to sell out, book your tickets in advance.
- Engage with Performers: Many shows involve audience participation—don’t be shy to join in.
- Explore Different Genres: From horror comedy to poignant dramas, the festival offers a range of genres worth exploring.
- Support Local Theatre: By attending the festival, you're supporting local artists and the vibrant Calgary arts scene.