For the 13th year, the Fresh Meat Festival brings local talent to the Arts Court Studio from October 23-26. Showing exclusively premieres of new work, this year’s Fresh Meat had five shows on the studio stage and one immersive experience in the Little Black Box.
In Sickness and in Health Anxiety
In Sickness and in Health Anxiety provides an insight into a modern relationship woven together by a charismatic narrator. The play follows the ups and downs of post-divorce dating, navigating complex family dynamics and relatable moments of the situationship-to-relationship pipeline. This show tackles medical anxiety and the life of a hypochondriac, bringing light to the often-overlooked partner support that comes with this. Throughout the abundance of scenes, the performance was full of heart, capturing some of the nuances of vulnerability and connection.
AC/DC
An exploration of guilt, regret and connection through the intimate lens of a young Filipino boy coming out to his mother. AC/DC balances humour with emotional depth, using hilarious projections that add a fun layer to the narrative. As it unfolds, the audience is invited into a repeated conversation highlighting the complexities of acceptance and love. While the show is sometimes clumsy in its dialogue and blocking, this fresh work discusses what it means to “win” in difficult discussions. It is raw and authentic, leaving a lasting impression on anyone navigating similar journeys.
Hungry Girl
A one-person play set in a change room with a set of two clothing racks, this performer blends storytelling with clever lighting cues, shifting timelines and enhancing the emotional depth of the piece. Hungry Girl reflects on their past and present within their body, blaming their Starbucks habits for no longer fitting into the jeans that had fit into when they were 16 years old, resonating with anyone grappling with body image and nostalgia. This show offers insight into personal growth and self-acceptance while acknowledging the absurdities of modern-day clothes shopping.
Spin Cult
A vibrant show, Spin Cult cleverly blends the format of a Netflix-style documentary interview with the exhilarating (and cult-ish) high-energy atmosphere of a spin class. The effective lighting design shifts seamlessly between the serious tones of a cult exposé and the vibes of an enthusiastic spin class, creating a dynamic audience experience. The campy humour takes centre stage throughout as the solo performer embodies over-the-top spin teacher tropes, keeping the audience engaged and entertained. With half the show happening on a spin bike, it’s an immersive exploration of fitness culture and fanaticism. This show is a wild ride!
Diary of a Hallmark Black Best Friend
Diary of a Hallmark Black Best Friend is a delightful blend of stand-up comedy and insightful commentary on race and tokenism in media. The performer navigates the world of Hallmark filming, sharing anecdotes after screening clips of her roles throughout various movies. The minimal tinsel curtain set is used as a portal from movie scenes to her internal monologue, showcasing what she wishes she would have said in those scripted scenes. Her personable delivery makes the poignant themes resonate deeply. This play not only entertains, but also invites important conversations about representation in the entertainment industry in an incredibly insightful and funny way.
Make sure to check out the Fresh Meat Festival from Oct. 23–26 at the Arts Court Theatre. For more information on showtimes, ticket prices, or general information about the festival, you can check out their website, or follow them on Instagram.
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