Big Queer Filipino Karaoke Night! produced by Tender Container with Associate Producers Newworld Theatre and New(to)Town Collective is a queer, 19+ show that encourages singing, laughter and drinking!

Located at the XY, this cozy space invites audience members to feel like they are at an open stage Karaoke/stand up night where they become part of the show. Davey Calderon, the writer and performer of this one-person show artfully uses the entire bar space throughout his performance, mingling with audience members as he tells his story about his trip to the Philippines intermixed with Karaoke songs sung by both himself and volunteers from the audience. And while his interaction with the audience made it feel very personal, it did lead to some stage blocking problems, as he does have his back to the audience at certain portions of the show. Also, the lighting cues were a bit behind at times, but that should be improved as the show continues its run. Other than that it was a fun, energetic show.

All in all, Calderon strikes the right balance between funny, sweet, and authentic when telling his stories that make for an enjoyable performance and a safe space to display your vocal talents!

Big Queer Filipino Karaoke Night! produced by Tender Container with Associate Producers Newworld Theatre and New(to)Town Collective is playing at XY 6 - 16 September as part of the 2018 Vancouver Fringe Festival.

Trevor and Margaret is staged at XY, a nightclub with a small stage, made for intimate shows. And Trevor and Margaret get intimate while holding each other at bay. Is it love? Or is Trevor self-destructive? And when someone is self-destructive, will they go down alone, or will they take those closest with them? You may not find answers in this production but it will open up questions and give you and your theatre-going friends something to explore.
 
The cast made good use of a small stage and a limited set and lighting. They had nothing more than three black chairs on stage. However, as characters came in and out of a scene and switched from interacting to monologue, both the lights and the chairs clearly indicated to the audience what was happening on stage.
 
If you are in love, or think you might be, yet struggle with love and family dynamics and their interplay, this could be the play for you.

Trevor and Margaret by Tomosuru Productions is playing at XY 6 - 16 September as part of the 2018 Vancouver Fringe Festival.

~ reviewed by Melody Owen