Philip Cairns
Failed is a fast paced, intense and sometimes moving new 90 minute play, written and directed by Frank Trotz. The plot focuses on Xander and his struggles of dealing, using and coming clean from drugs. Five male actors play various aspects of Xander as well as other characters, most of whom are also drug users. The only female in the cast, A.K. Shand, plays various characters as well, such as a teacher, mother and another fellow drug user. Numerous times, we see the characters shooting up and involved in dangerous drug deals. The scenes are short and to the point. I feel the piece may have been more effective as a 60 minute play as the repetition of the drug using scenes becomes a bit tedious for the audience.
Failed is based on the real experiences of Stephan Briones who also acts in the piece. We learn of his trials and tribulations and how hard it is to give up drugs once you are addicted. All the performers give very passionate, heartfelt performances. The script is serious and easy to follow (unlike some of the shows I’ve seen in the last few months). I found Failed to be entertaining, informative and often quite poetic. You really root for the main character, hoping he will get clean and move on with his life. I highly recommend seeing this piece of theatre.
Tickets and info for all Toronto Fringe shows can be found at fringetoronto.com
Failed is a fast paced, intense and sometimes moving new 90 minute play, written and directed by Frank Trotz. The plot focuses on Xander and his struggles of dealing, using and coming clean from drugs. Five male actors play various aspects of Xander as well as other characters, most of whom are also drug users. The only female in the cast, A.K. Shand, plays various characters as well, such as a teacher, mother and another fellow drug user. Numerous times, we see the characters shooting up and involved in dangerous drug deals. The scenes are short and to the point. I feel the piece may have been more effective as a 60 minute play as the repetition of the drug using scenes becomes a bit tedious for the audience.
Failed is based on the real experiences of Stephan Briones who also acts in the piece. We learn of his trials and tribulations and how hard it is to give up drugs once you are addicted. All the performers give very passionate, heartfelt performances. The script is serious and easy to follow (unlike some of the shows I’ve seen in the last few months). I found Failed to be entertaining, informative and often quite poetic. You really root for the main character, hoping he will get clean and move on with his life. I highly recommend seeing this piece of theatre.
Tickets and info for all Toronto Fringe shows can be found at fringetoronto.com
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