Ottawa Fringe: Get Yourself Home Skyler James a powerful and relevant solo show

 

Get Yourself Home Skyler JamesT

This is an excellent solo show produced by The Precariat and written nearly a decade ago by Canadian playwright Jordan Tannahill. The solo piece is based upon the real-life Skyler James who defected from the US military after facing vicious homophobia, physical assault, and threats of rape during the “don’t ask don’t tell” years.

Portrayed masterfully by Kellie MacDonald, the show finds James holed up in an Ottawa KFC recounting her painful story as to why she fled the American military. MacDonald fully immerses herself in the role, maintaining a good Texan accent throughout and capturing the emotional nuances and highs and lows of a story that goes from love to tragedy so quickly.

Despite being almost a decade old, the subject matter of the play holds up. The military is an institution slow to change, and in light of Trump’s transgender ban, the play is just as timely as it was when it was written. This Fringe performance is also a rare opportunity to see the play performed.

The Precariat’s approach to theatre is reflected in their name—a small, sparse set with minimal props and tech design; theatre on a budget, but great theatre nonetheless. It’s a powerful play excellently acted, and if it’s any indication, the Precariat will be carving out a spot for themselves in the Ottawa scene soon.