Hello, this is latest contributor, Harris Halabi, with access to the site ahead of the final weekend of Orlando Fringe! Getting added to the site may have broken it for a day. Not sure if that’s a good sign or a bad one.
I’ve been a little a light on shows ahead of what is sure to be a busy weekend, including a bit of a marathon of shows on Saturday. Here are my thoughts on 4 shows from Wednesday and Thursday, bringing the total shows I have reviewed to 34. I am aiming for 50 by the time all is said and done and total coverage from OTR will be at least half of the titles at the festival.
We Got Got
These performers are in total lockstep and really seem to be having so much fun on stage. They have the flexibility of a script that gives them just enough room to let their improv experience shine. I liked the framing of this story that clearly has affected the duo, which makes an upsetting tale about showbiz seem really fun and light. It allows a way to give a satisfying end to a story that may not ever develop beyond its low point.
The chick flick DNA is present, with references and ‘80s love songs inspiring some of the many bits. Lots of physical movement and nonstop jokes keep this entertaining throughout. A very funny show for all audiences.
Tickets and future showtimes here!
Jon Bennett: HOW I LEARNED TO HUG
Though not common among show listings at Orlando Fringe, stand-up comedy seems so natural considering specials are usually an hour. The framing that keeps all the bits together is fun, and there is plenty of room for some amusing tangents. A few potty humor bits near the beginning had me a little worried how the rest of it would shape up, but I found myself completely wrapped up in a journey told by an expert storyteller.
Tickets and future showtimes here!
An Improvised City Council Meeting
Lots of segments keep this long-form improv feeling fresh. Two council members are swapped out for each performance, as is a special guest, and powerpoint karaoke is performed by an unsuspecting council member. Not to mention, the main bulk of the show is based on audience input which requires all performers and attendees to adapt. A fun concept that delivers, and I anticipate will satisfy across all performances. I know this meeting was for the city of Notlando, but I actually do feel like there was some real community engagement, punctuated with unexpected input from a public transportation advocate commenting on a parking garage.
Tickets and future showtimes here!
Four Dinners
A really great premise generated due to a tense situation of past and present lovers, this show basically has one dinner (unless we count one of those infamous Taco Bell runs). However, that one dinner left me wanting more! The show got quite a few laughs out of me, but resolved pretty quickly during the final scene. I would really like to see the titular four dinners take place over a long one-act or full length play because there is so much potential for additional conflict. This version runs for about 45 minutes, but it is a really funny 45 minutes with a lot of heart!
Tickets and future showtimes here!