2007: Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner

Clarion Refugees - Altamonte Springs, FL

Official MySpace

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

In the 1960s, interracial dating caused a ruckus. In the 1980s we were debating same sex relationships. Welcome to the new century! Explore the next big issue: INTER-SPECIES DATING...

Hi, my name is Frank. I'm writing to you to get some sympathy. I'm the guy in the middle, in case you can't tell.

My daughter Joanie just brought home her new boyfriend, Shamus. He's an Orca. Don't call him a killer whale, it hurts his feelings.

As you can tell, my wife Marie flipped out, and believe me, she's not one to hold back her opinion. As usual, Sister John Paul Ringo is no help. All she wants to do is talk about is fundraising at the church, how much she loves fancy shoes.

Besides hollering, they all seem to want to sing. They're making so much noise I can hardly watch the game on TV.

Women!

So be a pal and come lend me some moral support. Fringe Festival. Green Venue. If you need more information, check out www.orlandofringe.org and look up 2007: Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. It'll be worth it, trust me.

52 Pick Up

theater simple - Seattle, WA

Official Webpage
TJ Dawe Show Page

Read the review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

An astutely intimate rollercoaster, 52 PICK UP works like memory; not linear, but random, non-sequiter, gut-jumping, and cumulative, swerving from gut-busting comedy to quiet heartbreak in the literal drop of a card.

“... an alluring romantic comedy - moving at the pace of a Tarantino film – and as predictable as Russian roulette.” -The Express, PERTH

SOLD OUT RUNS: Singapore, Australia, USA

What's the deal about 52 PICK UP?
52 ‘titles’ about a failed relationship are written on an ordinary deck of playing cards. At the top of the show, the performers throws the deck of cards in the air. The show order is then determined by random chance* as the cards are picked up throughout the performance.
*RANDOM. Note this word. We mean it – we really don’t have any sequence memorized. That would be waaaay too much work, even for us.

52 PICK UP by TJ Dawe and Rita Bozi
directed by K.Brian Neel, with Llysa Holland and Andrew Litzky as the Guy and The Gal

5ive

Boutwell/Diniz Productions - Orlando, FL

no webiste

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Five people reincarnate together over and over. All bets are off as they travel through sexuality, religion, immigration, and love to right wrongs they've carried on from previous lives.

A Love Lost Life

Too Much Religion Inc - Palm Beach Garden, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Reviews of "A Love Lost Life"

"...This is Brando's story, after all, in all its bleakness and faded glory. His life might be too much for any single documentary or play, but the loose framework of his children's failures gives it just enough focus."
--Tod Caviness (Orlando Sentinel)

"...This is good and interesting material, ably acted and deftly presented, without flourishes or gimmicks, in a very intimate way that makes each audience member feel as though he or she is being privately taken into confidence...This touching little drama is definitetly worth seeing."
--Michael Wanzie (Wanzie.com, 104.1 REAL Radio)

"Rob Ashkenas delivers a spot on Brando that transcends mere impersonation, and writer/actor David Barnes gives a chilling performance in this tightly crafted insightful drama. A MUST SEE!!"
--Frank McClain (Orlando Opera Company)

"'A Love Lost Life' was truly one of the highlights of this years Orlando Fringe. David {Barnes} shows us his considerable acting prowess in this tour de force performance. A Very thought provoking and sensitive portrayal of an American Icon. KUDOS!"
--What's Happening Orlando Magazine

Brando: One of the greatest American film actors of all time. An international icon. An eccentric. Rebel. A selfless activist. Father. Cautionary tale. Lover. Cultural myth. Visionary. The list goes on... Everyone has their own take on the late, great Marlon Brando. But how did he see himself? At the end of his illustrious and mysterious life, what personal demons did he face during those last moments of private reflection before passing into the great beyond? "A Love Lost Life" is a fact-based story that draws from Mr. Brando's own words, his documented life experiences, the triumphs and tragedies of his celebrated life, and shows the human side of one of the most reclusive and enigmatic figures of the twentieth century. Thoughtful. Unflinching. Heartbreaking. Cathartic. "A Love Lost Life" is a must-see for anyone who desires to know the truth about a conflicted man who happened to become a legend. This is the unauthorized story...

American Racket

Official MySpace
This isn't your grandmother's clogging group! This original production (choreography by Andy Howard) sheds a contemporary light on one of America's oldest (and loudest) forms of dance. American Culture Remixed!

Andrea’s Revolution

DnA Productions - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Femme Terrorists commit an act of war. Written by Nicole A. Carson, this piece will make you think twice about your next botox session.

Andrea's Revolution is the newest play by Nicole Antonia Carson. It is the story of Andrea Ratzenberg and her revolt against those who feed off of the insecurities of others. Don't miss this groundbreaking new play at the 2007 Orlando International Fringe Festival!

Bat Boy: The Musical

Winter Springs Performing Arts - Winter Springs, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

A half boy/half bat learns about life and love. Composed with smarts, staged with savvy and performed with gusto. You’d be batty to miss it.

Bitchslap!

Guys in Disguise - Edmonton, Canada

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Guys in Disguise have been performing at Canadian Theatres (yes - that's how Canadians spell theatre) and Festivals since 1987. That's 20 years of producing original Cross Dressing Comedies. At their inaugural visit to the Orlando Fringe they will be presenting BitchSlap! by Darrin Hagen. Joan Crawford (The Movie Star) and Bette Davis (The Actress): the ultimate Screen Goddesses. Too bad they hated each other so much! In this real-life showbiz feud, Crawford and Davis battle royally (like Queens) over roles, top billing, Oscars and MEN. BitchSlap! stars Darrin Hagen, Trevor Schmidt & Davina Stewart, and is directed by Trevor Schmidt (Award Winners - All). A smash hit on the Canadian Fringe Circuit, BitchSlap! makes its American Debut at the 2007 Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival.

Born to be Asian

DnA Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

An exploration of Asian American life, stereotypes, and media perceptions through the genre of comedy.

Boys, Boys, Boys!

Douglas Productions - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

A few quotes from the show: "How should I know...I'm a stripper, not a physicist." "I grew up and got a life...you should try it. 19 doesn't fit you very well anymore. It's a bit tight around your fat middle-aged ass." "They closed the MANHOLE because people had sex?? That's why it was OPEN!" "You're a selfish, arrogant godling, and everyone loves you. Next question?" "That's your problem, John. You never finish loving anyone. You keep them in your heart, then wonder why your heart is so heavy."

Breaking Glass

Peripheral Vision - Orlando, FL

Read the review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

“Masterful turns of phrase -- wry humor” (Booklist). Playwright/Mad Cow vet Sincic (that trousered ape) takes a comic shot at love in this new solo scandal. Tender rampage. Extra crunchy.

Calculus: The Musical!

Matheatre - Austin, TX

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read the review on Blogging Fringe

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Calculus: The Musical! is a comic “review” of the concepts and history of calculus. It was born as a teaching tool in Marc’s classroom. He found that setting formulas and rules to music helped his students learn and retain tricky information. “Maxima” and “minima” is an abstract concept to a lot of us, but when sung as a rousing “Can-Can” chorus, it’s fun and easy to remember! A blend of sketch comedy, musical theatre and classroom lecture, MATHEATRE has created a performance piece to show that although calculus is used in rocket science, well…it isn’t exactly rocket science.

Chatterbox

Slothco Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Behold as one man dares to improvise a variety show! Featuring zany characters, international acts, beloved celebrities, and “death-defying” stunts. This is shaping up to be a high energy, laugh-filled event. As opposed, of course, to the alternative being a mundane, nausea-inducing coma simulator.

Cirriculum Vitae

The Roodie Pancake Experiment - London, UK

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Hear a Blogging Fringe VoiceMail Review
fringe_2007_voice_02_cv.mp3

After a sell-out 2006 tour, Hogg comes to Orlando- An intensely verbose, physically exhaustive monologue about the working world. Rambling, meandering and sweating profusely- a genuine tour de force.

Coming In

Michi Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

A boy meets girl love story that is all but conventional when a lesbian and a gay man fall for each other and into social stereotypes. Caution: This may offend you.

Ctrl-Alt-Life

Brett Nicholson - Orlando, FL

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Christian is a Psych/Theatre major with the idea for the ultimate fi nal project: he will use his friend and his fi ance' as guinea pigs in interactions with strangers. They meet at their usual coffeehouse/bar, where Christian selects their partners, "directing" the interactions by texting their phones. But as reality blurs with a slightly twisted fantasy, how far will he take it? And how far will they go..?

Cupid and Psyche

Excellent Adventure Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

The Producers of "STREAKIN'!" and "THRILL ME" present a new musical about forbidden romance as Venus, goddess of love, aspires to divide her son Cupid and the beautiful mortal Psyche.

Dancing With The Porn Stars

Everybody Dance - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

First show to SELL OUT a performance in 2007!

US Gay Ballroom Champions Stuart and Richard present a FLESHTASTIC dance contest where real people are teamed with PORN STARS! Featuring Celebrity Guest Judges, Audience Participation, NUDITY! Bring Your Cellphones!

Dishpig

Chipped Paint Productions - Vancouver, British Columbia

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

written by TJ Dawe and Greg Landucci
performed by Greg Landucci
directed by TJ Dawe

“Hilarious, fast, flawless” Winnipeg Free Press

Dishpig is a one person show detailing the glory and triumph of scrubbing plates and cups and cutlery and pots in a high volume gourmet burger and margarita type restaurant.
And mopping the floor.
And taking out the garbage.
And doing grease runs.
And a whole lot of other duties.
But don't be fooled – there's a difficult side to the job, too.
What will our dishpig do with the mountains of cash he's making?
Will the social prestige of his employment go to his head?
How will he maintain graciousness as the world kisses his feet?
How will he choose amongst the legion of hot chicks on staff and on the floor vying for his affection?
These are the difficulties anyone who's ever worked in a hot, loud, busy kitchen knows well enough.

Dishpig was written over the winter of 2005/2006, and first read out to an audience at The Stand – a new script workshop series – organized by John Verhaeven, on February 10th, 2006, in the Carousel Theatre rehearsal space, Vancouver, BC. It had its second read for an invited audience on May 8th, 2006 in TJ's empty bunker-behind-a pet food store apartment which has since been torn down. Third reading: Cafe Montmartre, Vancouver. It opened at the Winnipeg Fringe, 2006. Fabulous response. Sold out all but its first two performances, and had an extra one added. Did really well in Saskatoon, too. Now it's back on the road. Revamped, after last year's limited run. A few scenes rewritten. And more changes in the lights.

Drip: Paint in Motion

DRIP paint in motion - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

DRIP is a performance art about the movement of paint and dance.

Movement and paint is combined to create an innovative, aesthetically arresting LIVE VISUAL ART EXPERIENCE. DRIP is packed with color and athletic contemporary movement. Using different forms of tools and canvases, dancers paint and the paint dances. The visual art pieces that are created during the show are auctioned off to the audience.

DRIP dancers combine many movement styles to create a unique art form with Passion, Strength, Control, and Grace.

Jessica Mariko pulls from her eclectic background of ballet, jazz, hip hop, break dancing, belly dancing, Capoeira, baton twirling and more to create unique modern movement. Her goal is to always be creating visuals that have never been seen before.

Elvis and Roy: The Last Concert

Peter Alden Entertainment - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Its 1976 the country’s bicentennial, Memphis and SUN Records celebrating a bi “SUN” tennial, - 25 years of Rock n Roll. WWIN presents Roy Orbison with surprise guest (Elvis Presley). A never before seen concert . . .

Encore for the Diva

The Studio Theatre of Wellington - Wellington, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Colin has run away from his hospice center, his final goal to become his operatic alter ego Dame Joan Wunderland. As he transforms we truly learn the meaning of bittersweet.

Father’s Day

Official MySpace
"Father's Day" is a character-driven, emotional drama that explores the journey of a man after his fatherhood is taken from him. Edward slaves away at his job to ensure his family's future is secure - at the expense of spending quality time with them. His purpose is to be a provider, a selfless man who believes sacrifice now will pay dividends later. But, when he misses a family event because of an unexpected problem at work, he hears news that a reckless driver has killed his son and crippled his wife in a major car wreck. The town feels Edward, a local everyman, deserves justice. The local law enforcement, disgusted with teen crimes of carelessness and the District Attorney's policies of forgiveness, secretly awards Edward the opportunity to get revenge - his way without legal intervention, unchallenged by law or anyone for that matter. "Father's Day" explores the journey of a broken father who must choose his reason for living: revenge or redemption?

Flamenco con Fusion

Ricardo Garcia's Flamenco Flow - Edinburgh, UK

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

High energy, contemporary: flamenco collides with the 21st century. Combining authentic flamenco music and dance from Spain with an unprecedented modern twist! 5 star production. "Mesmerizing...masterful.... a Fringe treasure."

Found & Lost: Goals for 2002

inFluxdance - Boston, MA / Charlottesville, VA

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Montreal's Spirit of the Fringe 2006! Four Stars from the Montreal Gazette! inFluxdance promises an amazing show! See why critics rave about their integration of dance, text and American Sign Language.

Ma Belle

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Harvey

Living Room Players - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Elwood P. Dowd is a sweet, good natured man whose best friend happens to be a 6-foot invisible rabbit named Harvey. This classic American comedy has charmed audiences for decades.

Heart of Coal

carbon productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to a Voicemail Review for this show.

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

This dark fantasy, with puppets by Heather Henson, tells the tale of a young girl's journey to save a mysterious mountain and, in doing so, discover her own destiny.

Improv Cabaret

imakepodcasts.com - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

"Mark is a star in his own right. Every word, every musical phrase...practically seamless."
-Blogging Fringe

Improv Cabaret is an improvised cabaret show with music and professional piano accompaniment in which Mark Baratelli, an excellent singer and master storyteller, manufactures plotline, monologues and lyrics just a millisecond before they tumble out of his mouth; and he does so without pause, and to hysterical ends. Improv Cabaret has to be seen to be believed, and many people come back to see a second or third show, as you can be assured that no two shows are alike.

"...Mark Baratelli and his accompanist were like a two-person Baby Wants Candy, the Second City group that improvises an entire stage musical, except his was a cabaret act. If you missed it, you missed one of the festival's best performances."
-Charleston City Paper writer Patrick Sharbaugh

"Improv Cabaret had the audience captivated from the moment Mark hit the stage. Mark Baratelli is a wonderful performer."
-Zach Ward
Executive Producer & Artistic Director
Dirty South Improv Festival

"Baratelli has an impressively showy singing voice and a nicely warped imagination... Baratelli...can be wonderfully weird..."
-Orlando Sentinel

Infidel!

Flying Phoenix - Orlando, FL

No Website

Eleven actors perform in this satirical comedy about a Caribbean dictator who is dead but refuses to be buried.

JAWZ: The Musical

Naked Orange Theatre Company - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Just when you thought it was safe...The science-fiction suspense/horror-disaster film takes to the stage with drama, comedy, music and bloody boys and babes in bathing suits!

JESUS IN MONTANA: Adventures in a Doomsday Cult

Aspen Comedy Works - Aspen, CO

Official Webpage

Read a review on Blogging Fringe

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

“Five stars! ...A devastatingly significant work...a scintillating sense of
humor, a magnificent turn of phrase and a way with a punch line that is jaw-dropping. You must see Jesus in Montana.” - Montreal Gazette

“Smith is an affable storyteller, and his show is both funny and gently thought-provoking.” – New York Times

Winner of the Outstanding Solo Show Award at the 2005 New York International Fringe festival, JESUS IN MONTANA is a monologue, written and performed by award-winning humorist Barry Smith who tells the true story of his surreal journey into the depths of a bizarre religious cult and his desperate quest for God's truth in the early 1990s.

Barry, then a disillusioned dishwasher living in Aspen, Colorado, believes his sophistication, wisdom and hallucinogenic drug use helped him to overcome his Southern fundamentalist upbringing...until he discovers Jesus has returned and is living in Montana!

Incorporating home movies, slides and other exciting stuff, Barry takes the audience with him as he travels to find Jesus. Does Barry actually meet Jesus? Does Jesus like Barry? The answers will surprise you.

JESUS IN MONTANA: Adventures in a Doomsday Cult is directed by Lynn Aliya, an award-winning actor, writer and director.

Not recommended for children or the spiritually faint of heart.

L.A. Nasty

The Habit Productions - Seattle, WA and Los Angeles, CA

Official Website
YouTube Videos

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Do you hate Los Angeles? Maybe it's time you started. "Uproarious" -Seattle Weekly "So damn funny!"-Seattle Stranger This hit comedy guarantees big laughs or your money back. No refunds.

La Duchesse de Langeais

Real Theatre - Toronto, Ontario

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

"Tonight, we don't make love, we get drunk!" La Duchesse. Critics say Couillard's performances are "engaging", "sturdy and bittersweet" and that he has "an alchemical ability to uplift audiences”.

Light My Way: A New Musical

LMW Workshop - Kississimme, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Consider the stars in a whole new light as you join a stellar cast of notable luminaries from fact and fiction on a musical journey through time and space.

Linwood Sassy’s Screw You Revue

Dewey Chaffee Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Meet Linwood Sassy, Beloved Superstar and King of the Catheter Circuit. Linwood's comedy revue makes it's stop in Orlando, along with sexy Nurse Gracie, and John the Orderly.

.. My name's Linwood Sassy and I'm 89 years old. I'm too old to worry about sayin' the "wrong thing" or bein' "politically correct." The fact is, my manager, Mr. Dewey Chaffee, booked my act at the Orlando International Fringe Festival and I AM PISSED. I consider myself a PROFESSIONAL entertainer and I am not too keen on havin' my show appear at some rinky-dink "theater festival." I know what those "festivals" are all about: a bunch of homosexuals runnin' around on stage NAKED and callin' it "art." Screw that! I refuse to do it. So don't get too excited about my show. I'm not comin'.

Live Feed

CineDance Jazz Dance - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Hear a VoiceMail Review for this show.

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Film and dance collide as this company explodes onto stage! "Eloquent, athletic, dynamic dancers…classicism, jazz, gestural expressivity and a little funk." - Diane Burns, Orlando Sentinel

Love Isn’t Black and White

Official MySpace
A young man's comedic journey through relationships is guided by his good and bad conscience. Hilarity ensues as he wrestles with a guy's worst nightmare… women.

Matador

Angelkiss Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Listen to a Voicemail Review for this show.

Read a review by Derek Ormond

Read the review on Blogging Fringe

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Once upon a time Christian Kelty, creator of Joe’s NYC Bar, dreamt of a bull and a matador and the cursed town they try to save. The cast and crew list reads as a virtual who’s who in the Orlando entertainment scene. Directing the piece are Christian Kelty of Temenos Theatre Ensemble and Michael Marinaccio, of Mary’s Wedding, The Blue Room and Farrago with Technical Direction by Laurel Clark, Artistic Director of Sleuth’s Mystery Dinner Theatre. Original score and live musical performance are by Nathan “Liam” Adams of Bughead and Preacher Bill and the Prophets fame. Designer extraordinaire, Tom Mangieri, has created an incredible visual environment for the piece and the fight choreography is being tackled by From the Hilt’s Ryan Gigliotti.

Producer Tim Hogan is thrilled with his pedigreed cast of local favorites Tim Williams, Don Fowler, Eric Pinder, Ricky Avila, Avis-Marie Barnes, Nadia Garzon, and Peni Lotoza who have graced the stages of Orlando Shakespeare Festival, Orlando Rep, Mad Cow, Theatre Downtown, Orlando Theatre Project, SAK, People’s Theatre, Disney, Universal, and numerous Orlando Fringe venues.

Known for risky and risqué pieces such as Obscenity, Joe’s NYC Bar and Born:The Hard Times and Fast Lives of Adam and Eve, Kelty wanted to avoid the adult content that decorated those pieces. “Matador is a like a classic fable,” says Kelty, “I wanted to write a story that could have been handed down through generations, to children and grandchildren.” The script has a poetic and dreamlike feel which takes the audience on a journey from the decaying town church to the vistas of the Spanish countryside to the excitement and intensity of the bullring.

Matanzas: A Survivor’s Story

Minda Stephens - Orlando, FL

no website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Florida, summer 1586 - A young musician heralds the perdition of his captors twenty years after surviving a massacre. For an artist, survival is the best revenge.

Matt and Ben

Penguin Point Productions - Winter Park, FL

Official MySpace

Read the review on Blogging Fringe

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

This hilariously scathing play takes us back to the pivotal moment when the script that would change their lives... fell from the ceiling while they were working on something else.

Maxim & Cosmo

Big Sandwich Productions - Vancouver, British Columbia

Official Website

Read the review on Blogging Fringe

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

written and performed by TJ Dawe

TJ's newest monologue.

90 minutes

About sex

There's very little physical action in the show.

None, in fact.

But there is an elaborate web of 16 000-some words, woven into the space over the stage

By a very opinionated, fast-talking guy

Sort of sit-down stand-up comedy

With stories

Examining gender roles, stereotypes, prejudices in our culture, in our language

Daring to possibly answer the question of what women really want

And men too

There's an extensive use of language that some people might consider foul. It isn't gratuitous.

Maxim & Cosmo first fell upon human ears in a series of workshop readings as part of The TJ Dawe Box Set on the 2005 fringe circuit. The response was rather good. In fact it was the best attended show in the box set. And got the most laughs. And applause. The script has incorporated some of the reactions that came along with those readings in Orlando, Montreal, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Victoria and Vancouver. And ignored others. It's now memorized, polished and ready to tour.

The title refers to the two magazines.

TJ has 3 shows this year!

Midnight Snack with Tom and Vincent

Kangagirl Productions LLC. - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Tom wakes in the night to find a past lover in his apartment; only he’s supposed to be dead. Somewhere between dreams and reality, they expose the myth of closure.

Mistero Buffo

Tethersend Productions - Toronto, Ontario, Canada

no website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

A collection of Medieval Passion plays interpreted in modern clown style by Dario Fo, the 1997 Nobel laureate for Literature. They are amusing and infuriating.

Murder on West 18th

PRT, Inc. - Orlando, FL

Official Webpage

Listen to a Voicemail Review for this show.

Sizzle and Sex - Passion and Mystery - Booze, Bullets and Betrayal: Lovers burn for each other and lose their minds in the Manhattan shadows.

Music Without Music

4:2:Five - Orlando, FL

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Last years "Patrons Pick". Vocal Group 4:2:Five returns with another fearless musical performance. More Laughs, More Harmony, More Happy-- No Instruments. Don't Miss this MUST SEE show!

Behold the power of the human voice...
Based in Orlando, FL, 4:2:Five has been shattering the a cappella stereotype since 2000 with their powerful performances across the U.S. Evolving from a street corner barbershop sound, and drawing on funk, rock, jazz, and blues-4:2:Five is unlike any musical experience on Earth, recreating an entire instrumental band with nothing but 5 mics and 5 voices with a style and charisma all their own. "Challenging the boundaries of contemporary music is what this group is all about," says Geoff Castellucci, "nothing we do is ordinary", this sentiment is echoed by 4:2:Five's legions of fans and "best live act" win at the 2001 Florida Peoples Music Awards. 4:2:Five has also performed at the Orlando International Fringe Festival, on several 100,000 watt radio stations and was featured as the trailer for Orlando� own 102 jams FM morning show. 4:2:Five had the honor of winning Ed Mcmahons international internet based talent competition www.nextbigstar.com, and can be seen on a nationally televised commercial promoting Nextbigstar.com. 4:2:Five is also the reigning Mid-Atlantic Harmony Sweeps Champion and was honored to be a National Harmony Sweepstakes finalist. In addition, 4:2:Five has worked extensively for Disney and performed at dozens of corporate venues, theaters, and schools. Amongst a musical landscape of imitators and manufactured acts, 4:2:Five is blazing new trails and winning the hearts and imaginations of audiences big and small and of every race, creed, sex, and age.
To categorize their approach to recording as innovative would be an understatement. The clarity of their harmonies, melodies, and the interdependence of their vocal performances render 4:2:Five akin to a professionally orchestrated band, minus the instruments. Their focus on the combination of rhythm and melody where the latter takes precedence, but does not overshadow the former, have helped to create some intensely infectious tunes, which are sure to open the door for a cappella to gain a more prestigious commercial foothold on the musical marketplace. Songs such as "Look at Me" and "Why do You" epitomize the originality and surprising lyrical depth of this talented Fivesome. For 4:2:Five, the future is now, with their current album's "EP" and "Time Machine" being sold across the nation at live performances, and their latest CD, "Unstoppable" slated for release this winter. For more information on individual members of 4:2:Five, please click the pictures to the right.

My Pal Bette

Randy Productions in association with B Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Tammy Kopko is Bette Davis: the drinking, chain-smoking screen siren and unlikely mentor to naive 8 year-old Tommy Klein. This hilariously warped buddy comedy explores the influence of self-empowered women (DIVAS, if you will) on awkward prepubescent boys. Featuring Janine Klein with John Ryan, Greg McIver, Yvette Kojic and Chris McIntyre. Directed by Vanessa Verdecia.

OUTLOUD! Too Gay for Fringe?

Orlando Gay Chorus - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Nuns with facial hair...and that's just the start! A musical review. Funny. Poignant. And everything in between. Come see the infamous ensemble censored for being TOO GAY!

Out of Pocket

pocketchange productions - Edmonton, Canada

no website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

From Mark Jenkins and Vanessa Sabouth of 2006's RealTime.

One couple is having a baby. Another is eating cat food. But hey, it’s Fancy Feast! A comedy about living simply, or simply living. If you liked RealTime, you’ll love this.

P.S. 69

Watson Arts - Brooklyn, NY

Official Website
Official MySpace

Listen to a Voicemail Review for this show.

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

P.S. 69 starring Susan Jeremy is a hilarious tale of a substitute teacher in a fictional Brooklyn school. Susan Jeremy plays all 24 characters in her critically acclaimed tour de force that is based on Jeremy's experiences as a teacher in a NYC public elementary school. It tells the story of Molly DeKowski, an uncertain young woman who wants to be a teacher. As Jeremy weaves 24 characters to portray the diversity and the difficulties inherent in an overcrowded, understaffed and under-funded inner city school, she brings to life an entire school system from the jive-talking, fourth-grade hip-hoppers, to the burned-out, embittered teachers to the over-protective mothers with allergy-ridden children.

PS 69 won Best Comedy at the 2000 Montreal Fringe Festival. Which led to a run at the prestigious Just for Laughs Comedy Festival. The show has toured and impressed audiences throughout USA and Canada. In 2003, competing with 1500 shows ,PS 69 played to packed houses and rave reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe festival .

Pentecostal Wisconsin

Bashful Scandinavian Productions - New York, NY

Official Webpage

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Pentecostalism is known as "the religion where they speak in tongues." Wisconsin is known as "the state where they really like cheese." Imagine trying to speak with God on a daily basis. Now imagine trying to do it with a mouth full of cheese.

After selling out shows across Canada and the US, as well as receiving two four-star reviews at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, Pentecostal Wisconsin will be presented as part of the Orlando Fringe Festival May 17th - 28th. According to the St. Paul Pioneer Press, Paulson "hits every requisite note of the ideal one-man show" in Pentecostal Wisconsin. He finds God, falls hard for a sexy Swedish teenager, and leaves his friend Jesus standing at the ticket counter at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport. And throughout it all he entertains with original and heartfelt (though sometimes tongue-firmly-in-cheek) songs in the style of the Pentecostal tradition.

"This categorically pitch-perfect one-man comedy has it all. Don't miss!" Time Out New York

"It's a brave performance - and it's very funny…4 STARS." Canadian Broadcasting Corp.

"…a subtle and witty trip…4 STARS" The List (Edinburgh, UK)

Finalist – Best Production in English, Montreal International Fringe Festival

Pentecostal Wisconsin was written by Paulson and directed and developed by Virginia Scott, whose credits include The Orange Girl at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen and the physical comedy Happy Hour at the Comedy Central Theatre in Los Angeles.

Poofy du Vey in “Burden of Poof”

Courtney Cunningham - New York, NY

Official Website
Official MySpace

Listen to a Voicemail Review of this show.

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Hear our Interview with Courtney Cunningham
fringe_09_poofy.mp3

A solo clown show written and performed by Courtney Cunningham
Directed by Emily Davis

As the youngest of six kids, Courtney quickly learned to be creative in order to get noticed. Anything for a smile – a wig, a beard, mom's old burgundy velvet suit, even dressing up as a life size tub of popcorn. Who would've thought years later she'd be writing, producing, performing and touring a new solo show throughout the US and Canada? Well, based on the following, anyone could see this as a natural order of events.

“A girl, a uke, and a long way home”. (Winnipeg Free Press)

“…like the illegitimate American crack baby of Mr. Bean and Bubble from Absolutely Fabulous…" (Philadelphia Weekly)

Psychic Follies

Official MySpace
The director of “Menopause the Musical” brings hilarious camp to psychics fake and real. A producer who wheels and deals, murder with a shove, a guy and gal in love.

Random Show by the Extreme Improv Guys

Name Change Pending Extreme Improv Troupe - Boynton Beach, FL

Official Website

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: Extreme Improv Random Show. Games involve danger, nudity, whippings, pellet guns and more. You choose the games. We try to survive. This ain’t your Daddy’s improv.

"...they are definitely for the wilder crowd...it is impossible to ignore this troupe. They provide a different take on the improv art form and can make for an interesting evening." Improvmiami.com

Extreme Improv, is a groundbreaking formula that calls for 100% interactive audience participation combined with elements that make traditional improv funny, topped with liberal doses of danger, pain, humiliation, torture, electricity, violence, ice, food, potential drowning, potential loss of consciousness, pharmaceuticals, and partial-to-full nudity.

NCP has invented and perfected such unusual games as:

* Head in a Bucket of...
* A Flogging Good Time
* Ice On the Rocks
* Cram It!
* Shock Therapy
* Drug of Choice
* Bring the Pain
* Strip Torture

We are constantly developing and producing new games, with the intent to keep our production fresh. Keep and eye out for Amish Rake Fight, Fire in the Hole, The Trifecta, The Inquisition and WWJD (What Would Jay Do?)

Rebel Without a Niche

Too Much Free Time Productions - Brooklyn, NY

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Kurt Fitzpatrick plays an alarming array of characters in this tale of an underemployed actor/filmmaker supporting himself with bizarre jobs in New York City. He's a bike messenger for a single day, a graveyard shift computer operator working under a hot-tempered Jamaican man, a guerilla marketer for Frozen Fresh groceries in New Jersey, and a zoot suit clad zombie in a Halloween show called "Madison Scare Garden." "Kurt Fitzpatrick is one hell of a sketch comedian." - See Magazine, Edmonton.

"Rebel Without a Niche" was previously performed at the Gene Frankel Theatre in New York, as well as part of the Uptown Arts Stroll in New York, and Fringe festivals in Toronto, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Victoria, and Vancouver.

SPORT: REMATCH

PB&J Brewery - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Listen to a Voicemail Review for this show.

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

The team from last year’s SPORT is back for more! Dust off your beer helmet, don your giant foam finger, and reapply that antiperspirant! This action packed romp is sure to thrill!

Saint Kristie

Douglas Productions - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

1 TIMOTHY 2:12-15: “Suffer not a woman to teach nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.” . . . what in the gay hell is THAT about??

Sexual Confines (three one acts)

I.D. 10-t productions - Orlando, FL

No Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Three provocative misadventures, exploring the boundaries of love, lust, and life, proving that no relationship should be taken at face value. Lie, cheat, or deal....full frontal nudity not included.

Six Characters: Best Show Ever

Six Characters - New York, NY

Official Website
Official MySpace

Listen to a Voicemail Review about this show.

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to the interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Yummy silent comedy casserole spiced with slapstick and served with a side of pie in the face! "Unapologetically hammy! They would sell their mothers for a laugh!"- New York Times

So Kiss Me Already, Herschel Gertz!

Awkward Moment Productions - Minneapolis, MN

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Read a review in encore

What do you do when you’re the pork chop in an all-Kosher world?

Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 1986. Amy has a plan for her 15th summer: Transform from total dorkwad to Material Girl. Build This City on rock and roll. And pine for Ross Buckman until he sees her True Colors shining through. Instead, Amy’s parents ship her off against her will to “freakishly Jewish” Camp L’Chaim, where “even the mosquitoes wear yarmulkes!” How Amy survives as the pork chop in an all-Kosher world “combines poetry, comedy, pathos and plain good storytelling” (--The Halifax Herald).

Salloway’s willingness to openly and publicly revisit her misfit status and spiritual confusion has earned her glowing reviews from critics and audience members alike, who’ve commented,

“…both kick-ass funny and achingly poignant, often at the same time”(-- CityBeat),

“David Sedaris has met his female match!” (--MN Fringe website)

“Tender and very funny…you’ll relate regardless of summer camp experience or religious persuasion -- Salloway’s story is universal and charming enough to win anyone over” (-- CBC Manitoba).

Theatregoers have come up to her on the street to share their own unhappy summer camp experiences, or to guess which real camp “L’Chaim” is the pseudonym for. Salloway hadn’t anticipated the rapport the show would generate, nor that a story centered around Judaica would be so universal: her first private booking for the show came from a conservative Lutheran college.

Steel Magnolias

The Green Room Company - Orlando, FL

no website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

"the six actresses who star in the Green Room Company’s production feel like old friends from the moment they take to the picture-perfect beauty-parlor set. They have nailed the heart of the play" - Matthew J. Palm, Orlando Sentinel

Truvy’s beauty parlor is the home for this story of friendship that will make you laugh and cry as the realities of life unfold for six “Steel Magnolias.”

String

DeXdance - New York, NY

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Four dancers intertwine contemporary choreography, spasmodic video projection, props flying through the air, and an original quirky musical score; all weave into DeXdance's "String".

Check out their "Media" page for a video and press clippings

Stupid Kids

The Sturm und Drang Company - Winter Park, FL

Official Website

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Four high schoolers form a 'love square' in which the sexual tension will either pull them apart or bring them closer than ever. Set to the soundtrack of the 1980's.

Suitcase of Memories

Orlando Youth Alliance - Orlando, FL

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Suitcase of Memories is a show of monologues that takes a look at the lives of gay and lesbian youth through the decades from the 1950's through present day.

That Fading Scent of Pus*y: A Dangerous Comedy About Women and Aging

Judith Black/Storyteller - Marblehead, MA

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

At the edge of your 'genital functions?' From the Adventures of Queen Crone to Sexy at Sixty, this show says there are still adventures and choices to be had!

Women, yearning for some comedic empowerment as you barrel towards the far end of your 'genital functions?' Men, yearning for some empathy for your woman? Come and see a show that is Menopause the Musical with brains and politics! Nationally acclaimed storyteller, Judith Black, in rant, song, and story explores That Fading Scent of Pus*y: A Dangerous Comedy About Women and Aging at the Orlando International Fringe Festival.

Black, the winner of storytelling's most coveted award The Oracle Circle of Excellence, has created a new show that probes women's aging. From ranting about our culture's expectation that women remain 'Sexy at 60,' to exploring the hidden obsessions of Snow White's Mother, and finally creating Queen Crone, a new super heroine for women to hang their futures on, this show will entertain, disturb, and exhilarate you.

The Glamorous Andrea Merlyn Magic Show: The Return!

Magic Taylor'd For You! - Indianapolis, IN

Official Website

Read a review on the Orlando Fringe Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Direct from Magic Chicago, Andrea Merlyn returns to the Orlando Fringe Theater Festival for 6 shows at the Orlando Repertory Theater Red Venue. The creator of the show, Master Magician Taylor Martin, creates new characters for the new show called "The Glamorous Andrea Merlyn Magic Show: The Return!"

"Enid Breation the drunk girl comes from my experiences working in nightclubs," says Taylor. "She will bother a lot of folks before the show, so don't be afraid. She's actually very safe." Also will be a new production called "Pandechenahl" which is an infomercial featuring Shammie Baye Fakkir a real snake oil seller, who is trying to sell another of those totally worthless medicines you see on TV today. "She's from Homeopathetic Industries and will cure what ails you, whether you're sick or not."

These new characters, as well as Andrea Merlyn herself, will magically entertain you. A true theatrical show, there will be amazing tricks to baffle as well as comedy that will make you think. Wonder abounds as she performs her amazing sleight of hand, while wearing evening gloves. Ever seen a magician perform any trick with gloves on? Come and see what the folks at Monday Night Magic and the Penn and Teller show call "an amazing moment in magic."

This is Taylor's second year in Orlando and his fourth Fringe Festival internationally. The show was the #1 show in it's venue last year in Indianapolis and has gained a lot of attention from last year's Orlando Fringe.

Come see what magicians and audiences all over the US are calling a "unique blend of comedy and magic." Get your tickets today.

The Honeymoon Period is Officially Over

Gemma Wilcox - London, UK

Official MySpace

Listen to a Blogging Fringe VoiceMail Review

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on Orlando Fringe Podcast

Award-winning Gemma Wilcox (London, UK) shapeshifts from male to female, rodent to feline in this humorous, poignant, multi-character comedy-drama about love and letting go.

"A remarkable display of both writing and performance" - Denver Post.

"Superb...moving...a gem!" - Austin American-Statesman.

“She uses her incredibly malleable body to create visual distinction...If you have the chance to see only one show, make it this show!” -nytheatre.com

The White Guy

Endangered Productions - Edmonton, Alberta

No Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

From Mark Jenkins, one half of 2006's RealTime and 2007's Out of Pocket.

What do you do when you feel the pressure of being just another white guy? You become a lesbian! Explore one man’s struggle as the world’s trendiest minority: The White Guy.

The Yellow Boat

Official MySpace
Join Benjamin and his family as they experience the journey of a young artists' life and together discover the inner strength of a child. 1998 AATE Distinguished Play Award winner

Tod Kimbro: F-bombs and G-strings

Tod Kimbro - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Tod Kimbro is an "Orlando Fringe Festival Icon" (Orlando Citysearch), and this year he will launch his first ever solo cabaret, "TOD KIMBRO: F-BOMBS & G-STRINGS" at the 2007 Festival in May! The show's smirky title refers to the seven g-strings contained in Tod's vintage piano, and the series of "F-Bombs" he will drop throughout the performance, i.e., songs that contain the ultimate curse word and use it in diverse and interesting ways. The rest of the set will contain rockin' original tunes like the ones you're hearing now, plenty of retro pop standards, classic alternative faves, a dash of Broadway, and some pieces from past Tod Kimbro plays -- including a never-before-heard showstopper from a revision of "LOUD," his acclaimed 2000 musical! A playful, irreverent, and exhilarating ride, Tod plans to rock the cabaret. "Kimbro is a terrific pianist and singer...a smooth polished voice" --Elizabeth Maupin, The Orlando Sentinel

VarieTEASE: Carnivale

BlueStar Productions - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Hear a Blogging Fringe VoiceMail Review
fringe_2007_voice_01_tease.mp3

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

BabyBlue and her kinkalicious coterie of girls, boys and “somewhere in-betweens" take you on a music and dance fueled ride through their Harajuku Carnivale! Come experience the madness!

Waiting

Voci Dance - Orlando, FL

Official Website
Official MySpace

Read Denna's review on Blogging Fringe

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Waiting for the bus, waiting to heal, waiting for your sanity....Voci modern dance company explores many aspects of “waiting” through their acclaimed blend of grace, athleticism, and comedy.

Featuring renowned spoken word artist Christa Bell.

See a photoset of last year's Paint Chips.

Who the Hell is Heliogabalus?

Duck Church Productions - Orlando, FL

No Website

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Decadent Roman Emperor, Heliogabalus, faces historical oblivion after earth's history is purchased at auction by a global corporation. Will his shocking biography survive the Big Edit?

Zombie Girlfriend

Doodie Humor - Orlando, FL

Official MySpace

Read a review on the Orlando Sentinel Theatre Blog

Listen to an interview on the Orlando Fringe Podcast

Boy meets Girl. Girl dies. Girl becomes a ZOMBIE. Boy feeds his Zombie Girlfriend hookers, pimps, and mimes to keep their love alive. This hilarious story is gonna get messy.