Field Zoology 101 at the Victoria Fringe 2018. An interview.

When an outstanding comic performer like Mike Delamont (God is a Scottish Drag Queen) tells you to go see a show—you go, or, at least I do. So it was in 2016 that he recommended Field Zoology 101 by Shawn O’Hara, another local comic who was performing for the first time at the Victoria Fringe.  The show was a hit, and it’s back for another run at this year’s Fringe. How long have you been producing work on the Fringe circuit? As an … [Read more...]

Sweeney Todd at Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre July 31-August 12 2018. An interview.

The behemoth that is Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd comes to the Roxy Theatre from July 31st- August 12th in Blue Bridge Repertory Theatre’s creative re-imagining.  I met with Patrick Du Wors, set and lighting designer, and Graham McMonagle, costume designer, to discuss the many innovations they have employed to redefine the scenario while remaining true to Sondheim’s original intentions. “Sweeney Todd is extremely taxing, even for the largest … [Read more...]

Reminiscences of Reconciliation by Logan Richards at the Victoria Fringe 2018. An interview.

Logan Richards is the second recipient of the Victoria Fringe Indigenous Artist Program.  He answered questions about his show, Reminiscences of Reconciliation. The Victoria Fringe IAP provides access and mentorship for local artists who identify as Indigenous, and wish to produce work as part of the Victoria Fringe. The program incorporates collaborative mentorship, access to resources and support to strengthen participating artist’s producing … [Read more...]

Kitt and Jane at the Victoria Fringe 2018. An interview.

Multi-award winning SNAFU Dance Theatre has been creating work since 2006, on the Canadian Fringe circuit and beyond.  Ingrid Hansen and Rod Peter Jr return to the 2018 Victoria Fringe Festival with a brand new director's cut of their smash hit Kitt and Jane. Ingrid Hansen answered questions about Kitt and Jane. Kitt and Jane. Poster art by Hank Pine. How long have you been producing work on the Fringe circuit? As an artist/company? … [Read more...]

Beginning/Middle/End at the Victoria Fringe Festival 2018. An interview.

Beginning/Middle/End by ReCued Productions promises a “choose your own adventure for theatre-lovers”. Writer and creator Brian Quackenbush answered questions about the show which appears at the Victoria Fringe Festival 2018. How long have you been producing work on the Fringe circuit? As an artist/company? Brian:  This is my 2nd Fringe show, 1st with this company. Is this your first time at the Victoria Fringe? Yes this is the … [Read more...]

Kalamazoo by Bema Productions at the Victoria Fringe 2018. An interview.

Bema Productions, founded in 2013 by veteran theatre-maker Zelda Dean during Congregation Emanu-El’s Arts Festival, has a reputation for producing thought-provoking dramas and comedies.  This year’s offering at the Victoria Fringe Festival, in the "bring your own venue" of the synagogue’s social hall is Kalamazoo. Zelda Dean was happy to answer a few questions. How long have you been producing work at the Victoria Fringe circuit?  As an … [Read more...]

Mom’s the Word 3: Nest 1/2 Empty at the Belfry Theatre. A review.

The cultural phenomena that is the Mom’s The Word collective has landed, once again, at their “home away from home”, the Belfry Theatre , for the latest update in the uproarious saga--Mom's the Word 3: Nest 1/2 Empty.  For twenty five years, relentless in their honesty, this quintet of actors and writers has turned selves, husbands, children and relationships into fodder for their remarkable comedic talents—and garnered an army of followers, not … [Read more...]

The Birdmann and Egg: Finale at the Victoria Fringe 2018. An interview.

To this day the work of The Birdmann and Egg remains some of the fringiest at any festival, and is a reminder of the importance of the Fringe circuit.  Arriving as The Birdmann in Victoria in 2011 (before beginning a serendipitous collaboration with fellow artist Egg--Sachie Mikawa), Trent Baumann quickly captured the hearts of audiences with his unique, quirky stylings that riff off classic vaudeville and busking routines.  Never afraid to push … [Read more...]

Rocko and Nakota Tales from the Land at the Victoria Fringe Festival 2018. An interview.

One of two plays centering Indigenous experience at the Victoria Fringe Festival 2018, Rocko and Nakota: Tales from the Land by Edmonton-based Anishinaabe artist Josh Languedoc is also the recipient of the CAFF lottery which allows entry into multiple Fringe festivals.  I caught up with Josh on the road between Ottawa and Winnipeg. How long have you been producing work on the Fringe circuit?  As an artist/company? As an artist I have … [Read more...]

The Measure of Love at the Victoria Fringe 2018. An interview.

Ten years ago, The Measure of Love by Nicholas Billon, with veteran actors Jean Topham and Geli Bartlett, was such a hit at the Victoria Fringe Festival that many fans were turned away disappointed (it was scheduled in the smaller 60 seat Intrepid Theatre Club).  In fact, festival organizers offered the company an extra night in a larger space to accommodate demand. Here’s your chance to find out what all the buzz was about in 2008 with this 2018 … [Read more...]