DAD BOD DANCE OFF
On Wednesday evening, the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival (Website) held its Local Teaser show, which serves as an annual kick-off to the fest. Of over 100 shows that will be part of this year’s Fringe, 40 were featured in the teaser, which gives each production just two minutes to try to get the audience curious about their show. Credit where credit is due, that is a feat not for the faint of heart.
Overall, the evening lived up to the unapologetic weirdness of Fringe and not-so-gently reminded the audience that the fest has been proudly unjuried throughout its three and a half decades, while at the same time giving moments of hope. Having said that, it should be noted that these shows are nearly a month away from production – a lot can happen.
As is tradition, each audience member was supplied with a program that gave them the opportunity to rate each 2-minute sampling with a happy face, neutral face, or sad face. I dutifully documented on mine, and here’s how the evening shook out for me: smiley 22.5%, neutral 45%, and sad 32.5%. Here are the ones for which I circled the grinning face:
- Chase Padgett: How to Play Guitar (Poorly) – Peacock Farm Productions
- The Dress – Ana Cuellar Productions
- Longer Than Forever, Queer Up 2 – Queer Up! Productions
- Miah’s Critter Comfort – JG Productions
- Once Upon a Traitor: Faithfully Ever After – Sista Steph Productions
- Against Her Wishes: A Dark Comedy – So What? Who Cares? Productions
- Dad Bod Dance Off! – Joel
- Psych! A Diagnostic Stand-Up Therapy Comedy Show – LeCours LeProductions
- Then, Eve – The World of Billie Jane
The Local Teaser also marked the beginning of ticket sales for this year’s Fringe. An additional teaser will take place on May 12 for national and international performers. That evening will also mark the start of the festival with a ribbon-cutting.
For more information on the Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, visit OrlandoFringe.org.
Check out some clips from the evening below.
