Philip Cairns
Checkpoint 300 plays at Factory Theatre Mainspace in this year's Toronto Fringe Festival. The 60 minute drama is written and directed by Michelle Wise based on her experiences in the Israeli Defence Force 20 years ago.
Shiri (Lizette Mynhardt) is a young woman who joins the army and is assigned to a very busy Checkpoint. She’s the only woman at the base and it’s a dangerous job. Her parents (Jorie Morrow and Geoff Mays) are very proud of her but the mother is nervous about her daughter’s safety. Shiri meets a young journalist (Brittany Cope) who wants to tell Shiri’s story. Things get a bit sexual between the lead character and her commanding officer (Ori Black in a lovely characterization). The shit hits the fan, however, when someone is shot at the Checkpoint.
The text is very dramatic and holds your attention. The script won this year's Fringe New Play Contest. It did run out of steam before the end, though. The whole cast came on stage, each said a few brief words, and then the play was abruptly over. Did I miss something? Perhaps the playwright was tailoring it specifically for a 60 minute slot.
The cast is strong, particularly the women, everyone playing with passion and complete conviction. Jorie Morrow is a stand-out playing a dual role. Do drag your butt over to Factory to see their excellent work!
Tickets and info for all Toronto Fringe shows can be found at fringetoronto.com
Checkpoint 300 plays at Factory Theatre Mainspace in this year's Toronto Fringe Festival. The 60 minute drama is written and directed by Michelle Wise based on her experiences in the Israeli Defence Force 20 years ago.
Shiri (Lizette Mynhardt) is a young woman who joins the army and is assigned to a very busy Checkpoint. She’s the only woman at the base and it’s a dangerous job. Her parents (Jorie Morrow and Geoff Mays) are very proud of her but the mother is nervous about her daughter’s safety. Shiri meets a young journalist (Brittany Cope) who wants to tell Shiri’s story. Things get a bit sexual between the lead character and her commanding officer (Ori Black in a lovely characterization). The shit hits the fan, however, when someone is shot at the Checkpoint.
The text is very dramatic and holds your attention. The script won this year's Fringe New Play Contest. It did run out of steam before the end, though. The whole cast came on stage, each said a few brief words, and then the play was abruptly over. Did I miss something? Perhaps the playwright was tailoring it specifically for a 60 minute slot.
The cast is strong, particularly the women, everyone playing with passion and complete conviction. Jorie Morrow is a stand-out playing a dual role. Do drag your butt over to Factory to see their excellent work!
Tickets and info for all Toronto Fringe shows can be found at fringetoronto.com
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