The San Diego International Fringe Festival is showcasing thought-provoking performances that blend dance, theater, and commentary, spotlighting significant societal issues and underrepresented voices.
Among the standout productions is “One Pie at a Time,” a captivating performance created by Erin Kracht and Tina Carreras.
This show has emerged as a highlight of this year’s festival, which spans various venues in San Diego, running until Sunday.
Performed by an ensemble at Liberty Station’s Light Box Theater, the cast includes Kracht, Carreras, Madelyn Embry, Kamil Richardson, Tem Albright, Lisa Strickland, Alexa Lopez Plush, and Samara Rodriguez.
The production presents a series of interconnected scenes that explore women’s roles in a patriarchy that imposes expectations on their duties, appearance, and thoughts.
Utilizing a unique combination of dance, movement, costuming, and facial expressions, the performance conveys the heavy burden of these gender norms effectively, many times exceeding the impact of spoken words.
Importantly, “One Pie at a Time” also serves as a powerful platform for empowerment.
It champions not just women’s rights but also voices in the trans community who face similar struggles against societal oppression.
In a light-hearted twist, the show features pie in several comedic cameos, adding an engaging dimension to its serious themes.
The production will have another showing on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. at the Light Box Theater, with tickets available at sdfringe.org.
Another gem at the festival is Yvonne Brown’s “Fre3sty13,” described as a polished and impactful “hiphopera.”
This show reinvents the national anthem with a jazzy flair while passionately addressing the elusive nature of the American Dream.
Brown’s self-written piece combines spoken word and movement with a singing style reminiscent of Minnie Riperton, crafting an hour of powerful social commentary.
Accompanied by a skilled band including keyboardist Dahani McFadden, vocalists Erin Vanderhyde-Gross and Brianna Grace, and percussionist Q Ortiz on a looper, Brown covers themes of race and the media’s portrayal of Black Americans, especially Black women.
Her poignant line, “Truth is brutal but crucial,” encapsulates the raw honesty of her performance.
During the song “Feminine in the Soul,” she showcases her talent by playing an African drum and even performing a handstand.
As an SDSU alum, one hopes this remarkable artist’s meditative and engaging show resonates long after its Fringe performance.
“Fre3sty13” will be offered one last time today at 9 p.m. in the Light Box Theater, with ticket details at sdfringe.org.
In more local theater news, John Leguizamo’s acclaimed show “Latin History for Morons” returns to the area after a successful run at La Jolla Playhouse nine years ago and a national tour in 2019.
This satirical standup act blends history with comedy and presents sharp, incisive observations on the history of oppression.
The Oceanside Theatre Company will present this popular show, featuring Rick Najera in the lead role, with preview performances starting Friday and opening night on Saturday, running through June 8.
Directed by Culture Clash co-founder Herbert Siguenza, this is a must-see for those who haven’t yet experienced Leguizamo’s unique blend of laughter and learning.
For tickets and additional information, visit oceansidetheatre.org/latin-history-for-morons.
Choral music enthusiasts may share concerns following the recent cancellation of NEA grants, which has significantly affected local arts organizations, including the Sacra/Profana chamber choir.
The critical nature of such grants is felt deeply in a vibrant city like San Diego, underscoring the need for continued support for the niche yet essential artistry Sacra/Profana offers.
The choir will still perform this Sunday at 4 p.m. at Christ United Presbyterian Church, featuring “Sliding Glass Doors,” highlighting music rooted in the Black American tradition, including works by gospel scholar Brandon Waddles.
Tickets can be found at sacraprofana.org.
The music scene also welcomes The Damned, celebrating almost 50 years of punk heritage with an upcoming performance Saturday night at The Observatory in North Park.
Original members, including lead vocalist Dave Vanian, guitarist Captain Sensible, and drummer Rat Scabies, will be part of this milestone tour, accompanied by longtime bassist Paul Grey.
Punk fans, both young and old, are anticipated to turn out in full force for this event, which promises to be a significant occasion in local music history.
Tickets for this concert are available at observatorysd.com/shows.
Beyond the Fringe, several notable arts and dining stories have recently emerged, including actions that have left local arts organizations, such as Sacra/Profana, reeling from NEA grant cancellations.
In addition, four North County restaurants have joined the prestigious California Michelin Guide, while the Museum of Illusions has launched its opening with 80 mind-bending exhibits in San Diego.
Concert highlights include Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan’s performances, as well as a rain-free Wonderfront festival finale featuring 4 Non Blondes’ reunion and Jason Mraz.
Upcoming events include an exhibition titled ‘Mirror Mirror’ at the San Diego International Airport, highlighting light, color, and space, and a play examining universal themes, “Jaja’s African Hair Braiding.”
The Old Globe has earned a recent review for its charming production, “House of India,” while Moxie Theatre’s “The Counter” provides a serene reflection on loneliness.
Diversionary is currently staging “Merry Me,” a sex comedy that creatively integrates both classic and contemporary themes.
For top weekend events, UC Television (UCTV) urges audiences to explore a variety of intriguing programs.
One highlighted talk features William Forsythe, the 2024 Kyoto Prize Laureate in Arts and Philosophy, sharing insights into his transformative approach to ballet as a contemporary art form.
Conversely, filmmakers Daphne Di Cinto and Medhin Paolos engage viewers with the history of Black African communities in Italy, expanding Afro Italian representation in media.
Lastly, Dr. Constantina Theofanopoulou discusses her research on oxytocin’s role in speech and dance, examining its implications for understanding and treating brain disorders, and exploring the connections between movement and communication.
As the San Diego International Fringe Festival draws to a close, these performances remind us of the power of art to inspire reflection, dialogue, and change within our communities.
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