False Start (Green Box Theatre Company) 2016 Toronto Fringe Review

False_Start_False Start, presented by Green Box Theatre Company, surprised me in the most wonderful way. This show has it all: the  funny, heart-melting and touching moments; the realistic and engaging dialogue; the truthful acting and the unique concept.  You don’t want to miss it at this year’s  Toronto Fringe Festival.

The array of emotions this show made me feel kept me, literally, at the edge of my seat.

As the show begins, the stage is slightly lighted but quickly fades out and we see is a protection centre-stage.  The four actors walk on stage and literally cross paths. As the lights go on, we see these two couples interact within each other while maintaining distance with the other couple. The football jersey that the two male characters had on and the similar character traits, quickly gave away the premise of the play.

The play follows two high school sweethearts living and learning  the complications of human relationships. Now, heres the interesting twist; the show jumps between the start of their relationship to their present day (around 15 or 20 years after). This dynamic exposition explores the parallels between their day-to-day living through the passage of time.

Playing the younger version of the couple, Elizabeth Adams and Dylan Evans shared an electric chemistry that accurately presented the insecurities and excitement of young love. Nevertheless, the many adorable interactions, silly and serious fights, sexual tensions and bitter moments were wonderfully executed by the entire cast.

Balanced in a very skillful way, the transitions between timelines and moods flowed naturally.  And as soon as I realized how the couples were connected, I  started to think  on the possible twists and turns the show could have. For me, a  show that will stimulate me from the beginning is already a stellar one.

I found myself so connected to this couple that I was rooting for them more and more with every single scene.  And something interesting happened. During those 60 minutes, I was able to forget about the outside world, believing that they were the only couple on Earth. And maybe the magic of Fringe got to me, but just in case, please please please, go watch this very enjoyable and heart warming show!

Details

  •  False Start will be playing at St. Vladimir’s Theatre  (620 Spadina Ave)
  • Tickets are $12 at the door and in advance, and can be bought online, by telephone (416-966-1062), from the Fringe Club at Honest Ed’s Alley, and — if any remain — from the venue’s box office starting one hour before curtain. The festival also offers a range of money-saving passes for serious Fringers.
  • Be aware that Fringe performances always start exactly on time, and that late comers are never admitted.
  • Content Warnings: False Start contains Sexual Content, Mature Language

Performances

  • Saturday July 2nd, 07:30 pm
  • Sunday July 3rd, 12:00 pm
  • Monday July 4th, 01:00 pm
  • Wednesday July 6th, 04:30 pm
  • Friday July 8th, 11:00 pm
  • Saturday July 9th, 07:00 pm

Photo Credit: Photo provided by company.

2 thoughts on “False Start (Green Box Theatre Company) 2016 Toronto Fringe Review”

  1. Loved this show so much – a definite must watch for any theatre (and non theatre) fans!!

  2. From a reader who has asked that we share their comments anonymously:

    “I was surprised to see a big crowd at this 12 noon Sunday show, but now I can understand why. The play was polished and so well written, with solid acting and a charming, playful cast. As the two couples evolved, I found their relationships entirely convincing.”

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