Opening January 3rd and running until January 14th, the 2018 Next Stage Theatre Festival (NSTF) will kick off the 30th year of the Toronto Fringe. The NSTF is the premiere winter theatre event in the city.
My NSTF picks this year include:
That “F” Word
Written by SaMel Tanz, Directed by Samantha Schleese & Melissa Hart
This comedic dance performance that fearlessly explores the struggles of feminism. With a diverse female cast, SaMel Tanz captivates audiences with a fusion of Contemporary, Latin, and Hip Hop dance forms.
The “F” Word – Highlight video from SaMel Tanz on Vimeo.
JONNO
Written by Alix Sobler, Directed by Paul Van Dyck
A bold and angry comedy about sexual assault and a powerful radio personality debuts in Toronto. Fuelled by the current conversations on victim-blaming, consent, and how to do feminism ‘right’, JONNO finds the humour and hope in the challenging and the controversial.
Good Morning, Viet Mom
Written and Performed by Franco Nguyen
soaring in liquid skies, the sleeper hit that played to sold out houses at the 2017 Toronto Fringe, returns with a new name and a revamped production. Dora award-winning actor Byron Abalos takes the helm as director for playwright, performer, and rising comedic star Franco Nguyen’s stories of growing up, living with mom, and Vietnam.
The Harold Experience
Created by The Assembly
True made-up stories… All spontaneous and on the spot! Featuring some of the best, award-winning improvisers in the country, The Harold Experience is an improv comedy show where the audience shapes the characters and stories they see unfold on stage. Featuring familiar faces from Canadian stages and TV shows, including Ashley Botting (CBC’s Because News), Ken Hall (TBS’s People of Earth), and Paloma Nunez (CBC’s Baroness Von Sketch Show).
The Surprise
Written by Christel Bartelse, Directed by Andy Massingham
Ginger is throwing a surprise party and she needs your help. That’s where YOU come in. No seriously, you do! The Surprise is a clown-based immersive experience that’s guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Who’s invited? Who’s the guest of honour? You have to come and find out. By the way, there will be cake!
Produced by the Toronto Fringe, NSTF is a platform for past Fringe artists to take ground-breaking work to the next level – and a gathering place for discerning culture lovers. All shows take place at Theatre Passe Muraille; tickets range from $10 – $15. For full listings, box office, and scheduling details, please visit the NSTF website.
