Working to get Harris Halabi added as an author on Orlando Theatre Review officially, but happy to oblige his request to share a few more of his reviews in the meantime! I added in some basic images and showtime info, but everything else you’ll read below is his work entirely apart from my parenthetical asides.
-Ilana Jael
Colonial Circus – History, Clown Style
The preshow music at Colonial Circus is a remix of that classic circus tune, which is a great way to say, this show is a remix to the classic clown show. The performers deliver a meaningful message about colonization using few words. The joy is in discovery. You will think to yourself, “what is it they are doing?” and at times you might think, “what is it I’m supposed to do?”
The gentleness of the commentary was paralleled by the most polite requests for audience participation. There are plenty of clown shows at Fringe this year, and this is among the ones with a desire to illustrate societal issues. But between the unusual makeup, physicality, and jokes, this feels really fresh. Not to mention, downright hilarious. Any questions?
Playing tonight @ 7:45 in the Pink Venue
Tickets and future showtimes here!
(Ilana’s note: wish I’d had the chance to try to put together a review of this one, but loved it in 2025’s mini-fest!)
A Hollywood Horror Story
This memoir of Vampira actress Maila Nurmi told in first person describes the rise, decline, and revival (I think she would prefer the term “resurection”) of a counter-culture icon. In Los Angeles, she was very involved with some other names you may recognize, but hers does not have the same recognition, something the writer/performer hopes to correct.
I certainly was not familiar with this figure at all, but could make a personal connection quickly with the punk rock playing during the preshow, something Vampira’s rebellion inspired. Not to mention, the devilock haircut is seen on her, something The Misfits borrowed for their iconic look.
This performance is mesmerizing, each motion seems measured and exact. Costume changes and video segments bookend monologues, all told in character. Ultimately, I feel like I much better understand one of the inspirations of the macabre housewife, and that Misfits song!
Next playing tommorow (May 21) at 7:05 pm in the Pink Venue, tickets and future performance info here!
(Ilana’s note: and you can read my review of this one as seen in this past January’s mini-fringe here!)
Basic Training
23 characters are played with perfect individuality in this very physical, very emotional performance. I don’t think one moment was wasted in this hour. Every beat was met with such precision that, if it didn’t serve the story, the talent show where multiple characters perform different acts would seem like gloating. But it is masterfully kept within the framework of basic training and the personal and professional adventures that followed.
So much of the human condition is captured so succinctly and smoothly. I laughed a lot. I sobbed uncontrollably. It is a treat that this once-Off-Broadway show is available at Fringe. I cannot recommend this highly enough.
Next playing at May 21st at 7:15 pm in the Green Venue, future showtimes and tickets here!
(Ilana’s note: haven’t caught this one yet, but been hearing a lot of buzz about it!)