Darren Stewart-Jones
I'd like to start by thanking playwright Steven Gallagher and composer Nicky Phillips for the gift that is The Last Party. This is simply one of the best pieces of theatre I have seen on any stage, anywhere. When I wasn't laughing through my tears, I was crying through my laughter. The stellar cast perform the witty script and wonderful score flawlessly, with seamless transitions between spoken dialogue and musical numbers.
I missed Steven Gallagher's Memorial at Toronto Fringe's Next Stage Festival but those of you who saw it may recognize The Last Party as a musical version of that play. The central character, Dylan, is dying. He is planning his own memorial which he intends to attend himself. Oh, and it's his wedding day. Through flashbacks, we learn about Dylan's life while he himself is forgetting most of it due to his illness.
Stand out musical numbers include an upbeat song about Dylan's first real boyfriend and a wonderfully intimate piece sung by Dylan's fiance, Trevor, as he helps an ailing Dylan to shave and dress for their nuptials. With stellar performances from Michael Lomenda, Jeremy Legat and Jessica Sherman, a simple yet elegant set by Brian Dudkiewicz and fine direction by Tracey Flye, I predict that this run at Toronto Fringe is just the beginning for The Last Party.
Tickets and info on all Toronto Fringe shows can be found at fringetoronto.com
I'd like to start by thanking playwright Steven Gallagher and composer Nicky Phillips for the gift that is The Last Party. This is simply one of the best pieces of theatre I have seen on any stage, anywhere. When I wasn't laughing through my tears, I was crying through my laughter. The stellar cast perform the witty script and wonderful score flawlessly, with seamless transitions between spoken dialogue and musical numbers.
I missed Steven Gallagher's Memorial at Toronto Fringe's Next Stage Festival but those of you who saw it may recognize The Last Party as a musical version of that play. The central character, Dylan, is dying. He is planning his own memorial which he intends to attend himself. Oh, and it's his wedding day. Through flashbacks, we learn about Dylan's life while he himself is forgetting most of it due to his illness.
Stand out musical numbers include an upbeat song about Dylan's first real boyfriend and a wonderfully intimate piece sung by Dylan's fiance, Trevor, as he helps an ailing Dylan to shave and dress for their nuptials. With stellar performances from Michael Lomenda, Jeremy Legat and Jessica Sherman, a simple yet elegant set by Brian Dudkiewicz and fine direction by Tracey Flye, I predict that this run at Toronto Fringe is just the beginning for The Last Party.
Tickets and info on all Toronto Fringe shows can be found at fringetoronto.com
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