Created by Moth & Firefly Theatre Collective
Produced by Moth & Firefly Theatre Collective | Ottawa, ON
Review by Adriana Moore
55 mins / 14+ / Dramedy, Psychological
The Death of a Swan is a show that spans the genres of dance-theatre, musical theatre and horror. The production seems to be well loved; it received the Jury’s Choice: Special Mention, Audience Choice Award, the Award of Distinction and the 2025 Youth Infringement Festival.
I went into The Death of a Swan completely unsure of what to expect. I fell in love instantly. It was a story that explored human vulnerability with sharpness and care. It presented Black and queer history in a way I had never experienced before. It displayed the timelessness of grief, dreams and passion, and intertwined the past, present and future in an impactful and delicate way.
Banner image for The Death of a Swan. Photo provided.
The performance touched on timely and necessary topics such as drag, politics, slavery and colonialism. It was clear that these issues were written about with care but there was absolutely no beating around the bush. The rawness was truly inspiring, and their vision was clear.
The Death of a Swan also did an excellent job using subtle but effective techniques to convey emotion. I was mesmerized by the stark use of colour, movement and costuming. I appreciated the choice to go with symbolism over words. Simply saying what was happening would not have been as effective as what was presented.
Above all, it was clear that the team was in love with and proud of their work. And that radiated through every single second of the production.
The Death of a Swan is playing at Arts Court Theatre from June 12–21. Tickets are $14 plus service fees at the Fringe box office (3rd floor, Arts Court, 2 Daly Avenue), and at the three satellite box offices (LabO in the Ottawa Art Gallery, Fringe Courtyard, 67 Nicholas St and La Nouvelle Scène). Five and ten Show Passes are also available. Visit the Ottawa Fringe Festival’s website for more information, and check out their online schedule here.
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