The Ottawa Fringe Festival, the city’s largest theatre festival, is in town this week, from June 20th to 30th, on the University of Ottawa campus.  I was there Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon/evening to check it out.

Comedy

I went to see “Botched” which is, unexpectedly, a comedy of sorts.  All three actors were impressive: witty, entertaining, and yes, quite funny considering the abortion-based storyline.  I was warned ahead of time that it was a “dark” comedy, but was pleasantly surprised and definitely amused, as it touched on all angles of the abortion experience; a thought-provoking and controversial issue in today’s society…

Theatre Arts

I have to admit, I am new to the world of theatre and had never heard of the Fringe Festival.   One of the actors in “Botched”, the daughter of my husband’s friend,  is staying with us in Ottawa this week throughout the festival.  Olivia Lloyd grew up in Belleville Ontario, but currently lives and works in Toronto as a fledgling actor.

I plan to take in more shows at the Fringe Festival with Olivia this week; the variety of shows is quite extensive, and the cost of admission is a very reasonable $10 per show. You too can become a “fringer” at the festival, check it out.

2023 Update

Since those days, Olivia has married (now Olivia Everett), living and working in Barrie, Ontario. Her husband (Paul Everett) is also very talented, together they are an impressive acoustic wedding duet. She sings, he plays the guitar. In fact, he teaches guitar lessons; check him out too.

I have been fortunate to attend one of the many performances Olivia has lent her impressive talents to, and hope to get to more in the future.