The Back Half

We are now on the back half of Fringe — just one week to go, and this year feels extra special. So many amazing shows, a record number of sell-outs, and a growing community of Fringers are testaments to the hard work of Katie Hartman, Bridget Leak, and the rest of the Know Theatre staff.

Friday night, I saw “Dizzy Miss Lizzie’s Roadside Revue: The Saints.” I thought the musical numbers were the strongest aspect of the show. Then, I was behind the camera for the Fringe Dance Party. It took a minute, but eventually the floor filled up with every kind of person you could picture: all ages, all genders, regulars and first-timers, everybody just dancing and having a good time. For me, this is the embodiment of what Fringe is really all about.

Saturday took me to Gabriel’s Corner for InBocca Performance’s The Mad Women’s Ball, directed by Caroline Stine.

Katie Scarlett is always a standout — I’ve never not enjoyed her work — and here she pulls double duty, anchoring the stage as Dr. Charcot while also sharing a writing credit on the piece.

The other highlight was the movement. The dance numbers, choreographed by Kate Stark, Perry Hensley, and Courtney Duncan, gave the show its real charge, and the dancing from ensemble members Duncan, Stark, Hensley, Ian Forsgren, Ashley Morton, Peyton Pope, Tamara Sanow, and Casey Jo Miller brought the whole thing together.

What I admire about InBocca Performance is that they make socially conscious, devised theatre that’s also genuinely entertaining — the ideas and the fun never seem to be fighting each other.

I closed out the night back behind the camera for The Gay Spelling Bee from Ben and Justin Present. The mileage these two get from their twist on the spelling bee is golden. This year’s installment - their fourth at Fringe - was especially thrilling! It really did come down to the wire at the end. Thanks to “Auntie Fringe” Karen Brinkman for her sponsorship of the event.

One programming note worth repeating: Saturday set a record for sell-outs, and I’d bet on more of the same all week. If there’s a show you’ve been meaning to see, buy the ticket now. The walk-up line is a gamble these days, and I’d hate for you to get turned away at the door.

Also, aren’t sure what to see? Check out the reviews at the League of Cincinnati Theatres and see what resonates.

I’ll be around throughout the week and next weekend. See you there?

The Cincinnati Fringe Festival runs from May 29th - June 13th, produced by Know Theatre of Cincinnati. Tickets and more information can be found at cincyfringe.com.

Kirk Sheppard is a proud member of the American Theatre Critic/Journalists Association. He writes about Cincinnati theatre—but mostly about being human. Check out kirksheppard.com for more information.