REVIEW: Paul and Erika’s House Show

I don’t want to give anything away; that wouldn’t be fair. Just know — it’s creative, cool, and surprising. Don’t miss it.

Cincy Fringe’s marketing phrase is “kinda weird. like you.” Well, you can count on the dynamic duo of Paul Strickland and Erika Kate MacDonald to bring the weird.

You can also count on them to bring the “you.”

As creators of some of the most popular Fringe shows of all time, they each have an aesthetic of their own. As solo artists, they are both engaging, smart, and charismatic. Erika has warmth and a kookiness about her, as well as comforting confidence that makes you want to grab a cup of coffee with her. Paul’s wordsmithing and ability to transport an audience into an imaginary world with such richness is just part of what makes him so good.

And when they get together its just magic.

“House Show” is their attempt to take their talents for stage magic and put it into a video. And it works, thanks to their inviting presence with just enough weirdness to make you wonder what’s next. I don’t want to give anything away; that wouldn’t be fair (thought I will tell you to hang in til halfway if you’re looking for “classic” Paul Strickland.)

Just know — it’s creative, cool, and surprising. And it’s incredibly touching and endearing. It’s 100% Paul and Erika, at least as much as it can be without the live audience. Don’t miss it.

Watch this interview I did with Paul and Erika talking about the show.

This year’s Cincinnati Fringe Festival is 100% online. Check out cincyfringe.com for all the details!