From Press Release
Conversations with Dork to premier at 2014 Toronto Fringe Festival Showing between July 4 and 12, 2014
As part of the 26th Annual Toronto Fringe Festival, Mind Bang Productions presents Conversations with Dork from July 4 to July 12 at St. Vladimir’s Institute Theatre, 620 Spadina Avenue. Set around a series of conversations between a grandfather and his grandson, Conversations with Dork examines the paradoxical familial relationships in which we often find ourselves in. Based on a true story, this new play poses the question “Why do we love the unlovable?”, especially when their beliefs are so different from our own.
The play’s main character (Jeff) struggles with the new found responsibility of caring for the well-being of his grandparents. As the play progresses, he is forced to confront his grandmother’s deteriorating health and his grandfather’s outdated beliefs, while also trying to balance the needs of a new relationship. Francis (Dork) is racist, misogynistic, and homophobic with views in stark contrast of those of his grandson Jeff and his girlfriend Jessica. The production plays with the themes of love and loss, humour and heartbreak – with a focus on family and what it means.
Mind Bang Productions is a new company formed by the show’s playwright Dan Patch. Dan is a graduate of The Second City Training Centre’s Conservatory Program. In addition, Dan co-wrote a pilot, which aired on Bite TV, and has written several shorts for Anger Hat, a comedy troupe which he co-founded.
The production is co-directed by Tracy Bradley and Joan Patch. The cast features Vince Carlin as Francis (Dork), Cookie Roscoe as Doris (Grammy), Nicolino De Francesco as Jeff, Sara Garcia as Jessica, and Ingrid Phaneuf as the Assessment Worker.
Conversations with Dork is the perfect outing for anyone who has someone in their family they would never befriend – but whom they love all the same.
Mind Bang Productions
in association with The Toronto Fringe Festival presents:
Conversations with Dork
Written by Dan Patch
Directed by Tracy Bradley and Joan Patch
Starring Vince Carlin, Cookie Roscoe, Nicolino De Francesco, Sara Garcia, and Ingrid Phaneuf. Stage managed by Dan Patch
Opens Friday, July 4, 2014 to Saturday, July 12, 2014 St. Vladimir’s Institute Theatre, 620 Spadina Avenue
Performances:
July 4, 11pm – 12midnight July 5, 9:45pm – 10:45pm July 6, 5:45pm – 6:45pm July 8, 10:45pm – 11:45pm July 9, 2:30pm – 3:30pm July 10, 3:30pm – 4:30pm July 12, 8:45pm – 9:45pm
Please note that there is absolutely no latecomer seating. Note: Mature language and content.
Tickets:
Tickets are $11 each in advance, and $10 each at the door.
Online: Go to Toronto Fringe Online Box Office
By phone: (416) 966-1062. June 12 – 27, Monday to Friday, 10am – 5pm. June 28 – July 13, 10am – 7pm. (Closed July 1). In person: Fringe Club, 581 Bloor Street West. July 2 – 13, noon to 9pm. If available, tickets are also available at the venue one hour prior to the show.