Escape from Ottawa
Created by Tamlynn Bryson and Rod Peter Jr.
Produced by Plisskin Productions, Toronto
Review by Julia Bueneman
60 min / 14+ / Play, Comedy, Puppet, Physical Theatre, Action / Mature Language, Sexual Content, Smoking, Cartoonish Violence
Prepare for a wild ride through the absurd and the unexpected with this comedic spectacle that delights in its irreverence. Snake (Tamlynn Bryson) has been requested by The Canadian Government to stop the evil Karen and retrieve a black box to save the world—but can he make it in time?
His interactions with a wide variety of characters (all played by Rod Peter Jr.)—each more eccentric than the last—provide ample opportunities for ridiculous moments and unexpected plot twists. Set in 1997 where the entire city has become a prison, this production is a delightful homage to the era’s penchant for over-the-top storytelling.
Cast from Escape from Ottawa. Photo provided.
An unabashed embrace of action movie tropes with plenty of nods to the original Snake Plisskin, this production captivates audiences with its perfect blend of humour and incisive social commentary. The comedic genius behind the show lies not only in its outrageous scenarios, but also in its ability to weave these moments into a narrative that is as hilarious as it is thought-provoking.
Escape from Ottawa‘s rudimentary projections cleverly juxtapose low-fi visuals with high-octane action sequences. Think cardboard cutout explosions, cheesy special effects, and larger-than-life characters brought to the stage through whimsical puppetry—adding a charmingly homemade aesthetic to the production while serving as a brilliant commentary on the grandiosity of Hollywood blockbusters.
Cast from Escape from Ottawa. Photo provided.
With its inventive storytelling, memorable characters and nostalgic nods, this production transports viewers on a journey filled with belly laughs and unexpected revelations. Strap in for a joyride through time and absurdity—Snake and his quest for the black box awaits, promising an evening of comedic delight. An absolute must-see this Fringe!
Escape from Ottawa is playing at Atelier Theatre from June 16–23. Tickets are $14 plus service fees at the Fringe box office (3rd floor, Arts Court, 2 Daly Avenue), and at the two satellite box offices (LabO in the Ottawa Art Gallery and La Nouvelle Scene). Five and ten Show Passes are also available. Visit the Ottawa Fringe Festival’s website for the show’s schedule and check out their online schedule here.
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