Ottawa Fringe 2013. The Show Must Go On.

From the creator of “Gametes and Gonads” comes another hilarious comedy. “The Show Must Go On”  has Jeff Leard’s signature all over it: it is funny, witty, and physical.

Leard tells about his experiences as an actor who started his career touring Canada with a children’s show. The experience encompassed numerous misfortunes on the road, in motels where they stayed and in classrooms where they performed. Leard’s unwillingness to be part of it is clear. Among many obvious reasons, there was the fact that he hated children. But, he would not be Jeff Leard if it were that simple. Somewhere, squeezed in between slippery and sloppy roads, bike gangs, and dirty motels, blossomed a heap of wonderful pictures and heart warming occurrences. During the narrative the young actor, although unaware of it, grew up and matured. At the end of the cycle he came to a realization that he loved performing for children and, more importantly, that his work made a difference. It’s a wonderful story told by an even better performer who kept the audience engaged every second of the hour. Leard’s acrobatic and acting abilities are superb. He is an unparalleled  story teller, able to bring a variety of characters on the stage, and to make each of them unique and convincing. He performs with every segment of  his body: his movements and facial expressions paint the additional elements of the tale, which enhance the scenography and add much to the already rich atmosphere.

“The Show Must Go On” is entertaining, funny and highly creative, all the reason why this show is a must for admirers of  good theatre.

Written and performed by: Jeff Leard

Directed by: James Leard

Dramaturgy: Rob Salerno