FRINGE UPDATE: Saturday
Just thought I’d check in this morning and recap some of the things I’ve seen, some of the buzz I’ve heard about things I haven’t seen, and generally talk about all things Fringe.
First, in case you didn’t see them, please check out my reviews for BOO-BOO, BABY MAMA, and WOODY VS. MIA VS. GWENTYH VS. COLDPLAY over at CityBeat (along with all the other “official” reviews from the shows in this year’s Festival.)
I’m having a really great time this year, pacing myself appropriately, and soaking up the fun, the art, and the fellowship of Fringe. Hanging out with friends in the Know Underground is as great if not greater than seeing all the performances. I’ve discovered some new artists, cried, laughed, and been inspired. It’s really wonderful.
I get asked a lot to recommend the “best of” that I’ve seen. That’s hard for me sometimes but I’ll tell you that Trey Tatum’s THE MIDNIGHT EXPRESS and Ben Dudley’s BOO-BOO are two smart pieces. I love a good story and these guys know how to write one. Speaking of stories, Mariah MacCarthy told her story of being a birth-mother giving up her child for adoption with such ease and comfort that I gave it a Critic’s Pick in CityBeat (BABY MAMA).
I’m really looking forward to seeing Torie Wiggins and Kevin Crowley this afternoon in WE DID IT, GIRL! Sunday night I’m excited for THE GOSPEL OF FAT KATHY and I’ve got to figure out a way to get DARLINGS, CLARA, and RYAN AND ALICE on my schedule based on reputation. I’ve also heard great things about DADDY ISSUES and YOU ARE THE HERO. Sadly, I won’t see them all but Know Theatre has done a terrific job of bringing back some of the “Best ofs” for encores throughout the year.
Anyway, I hope you’re having as much fun as I am. Producer Chris Wesselman and the Know Theatre staff have done a tremendous job organizing this beast of an event and it’s really wonderful to see the large, vibrant Cincinnati threatre community come together every June. If you’re not partaking… Well… Why not?
The Cincinnati Fringe Festival continues through next Saturday in various venues in Over-the-Rhine. Come down and explore. Click here for more information.