The Rating System NNNNN Standing ovation NNNN Sustained applause NNN Recommended, memorable scenes NN Seriously flawed N Get out the hook = Critics'' pick (highly recommended)

A- B- C- D- E- F- G- H- I- J- K- L- M- N- O- P- Q- R- S- T- U- V- W- X- Y- Z

 R  Indicates a reviewed show
Indicates Critics' Pick
 C  Indicates KidsVenue show
 T   Indicates longer than 60 minutes

 C    R   THE ADVENTURES OF BABA YAGA by Emily Davis (Messenger). Rating: NN
There are some fine masks and striking shadow puppets in this Russian-based fairy tale that incorporates bits of Cinderella and Hansel and Gretel, but the company’s storytelling is bland and only Eleanor O’Brien’s witch Baba Yaga stands out among the characters. (JK) Jul 2 at 2:45 pm, Jul 3 and 7 at 1:30 pm, Jul 4 at 1:45 pm, Jul 5 at noon, Jul 6 at 5:45 pm, Jul 8 at 7:30 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm. Palmerston Library .

 T    R   THE ADVENTURES OF JOSEPH ANDREWS by Kenneth Brown (Studio 268). Rating: NN
A big disappointment. A mostly strong ensemble tackles this long adaptation of Fielding's satiric novel, but to what end? There's too much headache-inducing narration, and much of the humour is forced - we're nudged into laughing. (GS) Jul 2 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 3 pm, Jul 5 at 5 pm, Jul 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 7 at 1:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10:30 pm, Jul 11 at 4:30 pm. Factory Studio .

 R   THE AMERICAN DREAM by Edward Albee (Fireplay). Rating: NNNN
Edward Albee's savage indictment of early 1960s American society gets a razor sharp production. Director Barbara Larose and an across-the-board fine cast captures the right tone of civility and hostility in a play that holds up incredibly well. Not to be missed. (GS)
Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at noon, Jul 4 at 7:30 pm, Jul 5 at 2 pm, Jul 7 at 9:30 pm, Jul 9 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 11 pm. Factory Mainspace.

Barely surviving my Jewish family by Sari Colt (Shprinza). The stand-up comic recounts stories about her Jewish upbringing. Jul 1 at 7 pm, Jul 3 at 11 pm, Jul 5 at 2 pm, Jul 6 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 5 pm, Jul 9 at 9:30 pm, Jul 10 at 1:30 pm. Factory Studio .

 C   Barkely's Park by Michael Smith and Janice Israeloff (Awe!). A girl befriends a tree in a landfill site. Jul 3 at 4:30 pm, Jul 4 at 7:15 pm, Jul 5 at 3 pm, Jul 6 at 11 am, Jul 7 at 6 pm, Jul 8 at 1:45 pm, Jul 9 at 7:30 pm, Jul 11 at 3 pm. Palmerston Library .

 T    R   BELOW THE BELT by Richard Dresser (Same Day). Rating: NNN
Two factory employees battle each other and their shit-disturbing boss in this Pinteresque riff, but the script isn’t nearly as strong as the production, set in an actual factory and acted with non-stop energy by David Frisch, David Pauls and Christopher Sawchyn. (JK) Jul 1-3, 5 and 7-10 at 8:30 pm, Jul 4 and 11 at 4 pm. Dupont Woodworking Cooperative , 374 Dupont.

Benjamin Crellin @ Witsend by Benjamin Crellin (Crellin). The Kiwi stand-up performs a solo show. Jul 1 at 7 pm, Jul 4 and 11 at 12:30 pm, Jul 5 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at 9:30 pm, Jul 8 at 1:30 pm, Jul 9 at 6:30 pm. St Vladimir's .

Bird, Boats, Wind, Traffic and a Felliniesque experience by Bernie Lee (Lee). Lee's solo show combines text, music and comedy. Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at 11 pm, Jul 5 at 2 pm, Jul 6 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 9:30 pm, Jul 8 at 4:30 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm. Artword .

The Blood of a coward - NNN (Praxis Theatre).
Though there are some fine scenes and (especially in the latter half) some evocative poetry, this collectively created work inspired by the life of hard-drinking writer Charles Bukowski feels like a workshop production. Solid performances by a grizzled Greg Dunham and a cocky Erin King as two sides of the unique writer. - (GS) Jul 2 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 3:30 pm, Jul 5 at 7 pm, Jul 6 at 5:30 pm, Jul 7 at noon, Jul 8 at 7:30 pm, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm. Factory Mainspace .

the boneyard man by Jayson McDonald (Natural Broadcasting). This radio serial is performed live-to-air (broadcast on Rogers TV), with two episodes per show. Jul 2 at 6:30 pm, Jul 4 at 8:30 pm, Jul 5 at 5:30 pm, Jul 8 at 11:30 pm, Jul 9 at 8 pm, Jul 10 at noon, Jul 11 at 1 pm. Royal St George .

 R   CACTUS by Jonno Katz (Epicworlds/Jonno Katz). Rating: NNN
Jonno Katz occasionally loses his step in this funny, often surreal look at three men traversing the desert. But his sad-eyed, love-me-please style can be endearing. (GS)
Jul 1 and 10 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 11 pm, Jul 6 at 2 pm, Jul 7 at 6:30 pm, Jul 8 at noon, Jul 9 at 4 pm. Robert Gill .

carter siddall is a spectacular loser by Carter Siddall (Thin Guy). Siddall performs another autobiographical solo comedy. Jul 3 at 11:30 pm, Jul 4 at 2 pm, Jul 5 at 9:30 pm, Jul 7 at 5:30 pm, Jul 8 at 12:30 pm, Jul 9 at 7 pm, Jul 11 at 1:30 pm. Poor Alex .

 R  THE CATALYST by Jane Haddad (Her Web). Rating: NN
Writer/actor Jane Haddad has a confident voice and stage presence, but her wannabe sitcom about a lonely woman whose relationship with her cat takes on another dimension is neither funny nor insightful. Too bad, because there's lots of potential for revealing truths about relationships. (GS)
Jul 1 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at 5 pm, Jul 4 at 10 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 8 at noon, Jul 9 at 6:30 pm, Jul 11 at 1:30 pm. Factory Studio .

Catholic School Girls by Casey Kurtti (Theatre Soup). This comedy looks at puberty in a Catholic school. Jul 2 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at 5 pm, Jul 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 6 at 1 pm, Jul 7 at 3 pm, Jul 8 at 9 pm, Jul 11 at 3:30 pm. Factory Mainspace .

chandelierva - NNN by Suzette Araujo (MerryGoRound).
Suzette Araujo's delightful red-nosed clown -- an applause-hungry diva who slips and slides her way around the stage -- is a delight, whether she's singing, flirting with the audience or recounting her life and loves. - (JK) Jul 2 at 8 pm, Jul 3 at 11 pm, Jul 4 at 4 pm, Jul 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 8 at 12:30 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm. Royal St George .

THE CHURCH OF DAD - NN by Virginia Cowan (farmgrl).
The tiny, sweet-voiced Virginia Cowan gives a ballsy, gusty performance as a cynical woman who returns to the country and holes up in a church looking for answers. But her under-written script only comes alive when it touches on the hypocrisies of small-town life. - (GS) Jul 3 at 6:30 pm, Jul 4 at 2 pm, Jul 7 at 8 pm, Jul 9 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at 1:30 pm, Jul 11 at noon. Robert Gill .

cody bates and the secret of the vanishing tiger by Jason Holborn (TigerTale). Holborn plays a prostitute who solves a personal mystery. Jul 3 and 7 at 8 pm, Jul 5 at 2:30 pm, Jul 6 at 4 pm, Jul 8 at 5:30 pm, Jul 9 at 9:30 pm, Jul 10 at 1:30 pm. Royal St George .

 T   The Constructivist Suit by Robert Di Giovanni (Company 26). A Communist ad-writing poet is conflicted. Jul 1 at 7 pm, Jul 3 and 7 at 7 at 1:30 pm, Jul 5 at 5 pm, Jul 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10:30 pm, Jul 11 at 4:30 pm. Robert Gill .

CUPPA JO by Jolene Bailie and others (Bailie). Choreographer Bailie presents a series of solo dances. Jul 3 at 9:30 pm, Jul 6 at 4 pm, Jul 7 at 6:30 pm, Jul 8 at noon, Jul 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 11 at 7 pm. Artword .

The Curse of the Trickster - NNNN by TJ Dawe (Big Sandwich).
In an elliptical narrative style that's become his trademark, storyteller T.J. Dawe spins a tale of battling Montezuma's Revenge in Mexico that makes him flash back to earlier confrontations with pain, including mononucleosis and having his wisdom teeth extracted. Dawe always makes it look easy. - (GS) Jul 2 at 6 pm, Jul 4 at 8:30 pm, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 6 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 9:30 pm, Jul 8 at 1:30 pm, Jul 10 at 7:30 pm. Robert Gill .

 R    T   CYRANO DE BERGERAC by Edmond Rostand (Red Letter). Rating: NNN
Edmond Rostand’s period comic romance about the lover with the big schnozz gets an outdoor production, featuring a splendid Chris Coculuzzi in the title role. This guy handles the role’s language and sword-fighting with the appropriate panache. (JK)
Jul 1-4 and 6-11 at 9 pm. Trinity College Garden , 15 Devonshire.

 R  dickwhipped: the kristeen and laurie story by Kristeen von Hagen and Laurie Elliott (Caviar and Lace). Rating: NNN
Laurie Elliott's the brash one, Kristeen von Hagen the more understated (and funnier) one in this piece in which the two women rip apart their ex-boyfriends, explaining why they themselves aren't dickwhipped in their relationships. Sometimes funny, sometimes flat. (JK)
Jul 2 at 6 pm, Jul 4 at 8:30 pm, Jul 5 at noon, Jul 6 at 5:30 pm, Jul 7 at 10 pm, Jul 8 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 6:30 pm. Poor Alex .

 T    R   THE DIVINE HERETIC by Tara Cates and Kevin Nelson (DareDen). Rating: NN
There are some striking visual tableaux in this well-designed and expensive(11 actors) musical about the mother of Joan of Arc, but the script is vague and confusing(a narrator is clearly needed), and the songs an endless series of derivative weepy ballads that need stronger contextualization. Some good talent onstage, largely wasted in an earnest, pretentious mess. (GS)
Jul 2 at 5:30 pm, Jul 4 at 4 pm, Jul 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 6 at 2 pm, Jul 9 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 7:30 pm. Artword .

 R  THE DIZZY & DALE CHRONICLES by Cheryl McNamara (Femme Fatale). Rating: NNN
There's an intentional 50s sitcom feel to Cheryl McNamara's two pieces about lesbian partners Dizzy (Jane Moffat) and Dale (McNamara) - think a queer Lucy and Ethel. The writing could be tightened up, but Moffat's rubber-faced and -limbed Dizzy is a comic dyke delight. (JK)
Jul 3 at 10 pm, Jul 4 at 4:30 pm, Jul 5 at 8 pm, Jul 8 at 12:30 pm, Jul 9 at 7 pm, Jul 10 at 2 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

dolores by Edward Allen Baker (KooKoo Bird). This play examines violence, love, fear and family. Jul 1 at 9:30 pm, Jul 2 at 11 pm, Jul 4 at 6 pm, Jul 7 at 7 pm, Jul 8 at 3:30 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm, Jul 10 at 11:30 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

 C   Double trouble for Alistair Ant by Soli and Rob Joy (Alistair Ant). A puppet ant wants a friend just like him. Jul 2 at 5:45 pm, Jul 4 and 9 at 3:15 pm, Jul 6 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 7:30 pm, Jul 8 at 11 am, Jul 10 at 6 pm, Jul 11 at 4:30 pm. Palmerston Library .

the doubter's apprentice by Christopher Behnisch (Fingerschmidt Guillotine). A man who thinks he's an angel gets put away in this comedy. Jul 3 at 7 pm, Jul 4 at 9 pm, Jul 5 at 4:30 pm, Jul 8 at 11:30 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 12:30 pm, Jul 11 at 5:30 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

 T   Dreams of Baby by Mary Lathrop (Best Medicine). A pregnant woman has second thoughts as she goes into labour. Jul 1 and 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at noon, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 4:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10:30 pm, Jul 11 at 5 pm. Artword .

8 FEET UNDER by the company (Aunt Patti & Little Olga). Improv artists offer a comic look at death and eulogies. Jul 2-3, 5-8 and 11 at 9 pm, Jul 4 at 4:30 pm, Jul 9-10 at 8:30 pm. Sonic Boom , 512 Bloor W.

Everyone Wants to be Mary Magdalene by Brandy Yanchyk (Brandy Y). A modern woman searches for salvation in this solo show. July 3 at 10 pm, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 8 pm, Jul 8 at 4:30 pm, Jul 9 at 9:30 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm, Jul 11 at 5:30 pm. St Vladimir's .

EXit this Way - N by Dennis Couillard (Real Theatre).
Dennis Couillard's solo show about a gay actor who's struck out in love and career reveals nothing about acting, relationships or being gay. Exit? Yes! - (GS) Jul 3 at 9:30 pm, Jul 4 at 5:30 pm, Jul 5 and 9 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 3:30 pm, Jul 8 at 3 pm, Jul 10 at noon. Robert Gill .

Exposed in High Park by Joshua Ginsberg (Wok the Cow). A struggling writer finds a change of luck in a park. Jul 1 at 7 pm, Jul 3 at 5 pm, Jul 4 at 7:30 pm, Jul 5 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 8 pm, Jul 8 at 1:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11:30 pm. Artword .

 R   FABLE: BASED ON A TRUE STORY by Adam Lazarus (Schmigeggy). Rating: NNN
The scabrous, legless Eff – his name stands for what you think – tells a creation story about his time in the Garden of Eden, along with Adam, Eve and Lilith. Shat from God’s ass, Eff is salacious with the audience, nasty, sometimes funny and always, in Adam Lazarus’ performance, clearly in focus as he toys with and insults viewers in true bouffon fashion. (JK) Jul 2 at 6:30 pm, Jul 4 at 3 pm, Jul 6 at 10 pm, Jul 7 at 2:30 pm, Jul 8 at 8:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11:30 pm, Jul 11 at 4 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

 R   FEAR OF A BROWN PLANET by Niles Séguin (Third Man). Rating: NNN
Stand-up comic Nile Seguin takes on the race issue as it applies to the entertainment industry, and his insights are funny, uncompromising and always intelligent. Seguin has a refreshingly confident, cocky delivery - too bad the show has a shaky beginning and even shakier conclusion. (GS)
Jul 3 at 9:30 pm, Jul 4 at 7 pm, Jul 5 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 11 pm, Jul 8 at 1:30 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm, Jul 11 at 3 pm. Factory Studio .

The 50 Million heros of 8/14 by Simon Eskow (Greenpoint). An American decides her future during the blackout of 2003. Jul 3 at 6:30 pm, Jul 4 at 2:30 pm, Jul 5 at 10 pm, Jul 7 and 10 at 1:30 pm, Jul 8 at 6 pm, Jul 9 at 8 pm. Factory Mainspace .

FISH AND FOR DESSERT by Laurel Green and Helen Yung (Church Basement). An absurdist piece set in a restaurant looks at the meaning of appreciation. Jul 2 at 11 pm, Jul 3 at 12:30 pm, Jul 4 at 7:30 pm, Jul 6 at 2 pm, Jul 8 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 6:30 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

flavor of the week - NNN by Alix Sobler (InTrouble).
Alix Sobler's brash, manic energy works well for her solo show about a New Yorker ranting about cell phones, low-fat frozen desserts and coffee while nervously waiting for the results of a batch of STD tests. There are lots of clever observations, but the script's a tad manipulative and there are some emotional holes in the narrative. - (GS) Jul 3 at 8 pm, Jul 4 at 12:30 pm, Jul 5 at 10:30 pm, Jul 6 at 2 pm, Jul 7 at 6:30 pm, Jul 8 at 7:30 pm, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm. Factory Studio .

14 Sketches by Too Bad Leroy (Too Bad Leroy). The Richmond Hill troupe stages a sketch revue. Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at 8 pm, Jul 4 at 3 pm, Jul 8 at 8:30 pm, Jul 9 at 5:30 pm, Jul 10 at 1:30 pm, Jul 11 at 7 pm. Helen Gardiner Phelan .

 T   FREE/FALL by Len Falkenstein (Theatre Free Radical). A Romanian orphan is caught in a custody battle in a paranoid 9/11 world. Jul 3 at 3:30 pm, Jul 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 6 at 5pm, Jul 7 at 2 pm, Jul 8 at 6:30 pm, Jul 10 at 11:30 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

free room: two short comedies by Michael Rottman (Putznik). This comic double bill looks at art and business and a poet and his cat. Jul 2 at 7:30 pm, Jul 4 at 5:30 pm, Jul 6 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at noon, Jul 8 at 6 pm, Jul 9 at 5 pm, Jul 11 at 6:30 pm. Factory Studio .

 R   FRINGE SHOW: A LOVE STORY by Ryan Gladstone and Bruce Horak (Monster). Rating: NNNN
Bruce Horak and Ryan Gladstone energetically and entertaining take us through all the cliches and conventions of touring with a National Fringe show. Sometimes the performers are a bit too clever in their post-modernism - call them the Charlie Kaufmans of the Fringe circuit. But for frequent Fringers(performers or audience members), this impeccably staged show will ring true. As a bonus, one of the best climaxes in a Fringe show this year. (GS) Jul 2 at 4 pm, Jul 4 at 9 pm, Jul 5-6 at 5:30 pm, Jul 7 at 11 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 9:30 pm. Artword .

 R    C   The Frog Prince by Robert Knapp (Skookie). Rating: N
Nothing wrong with a children’s play driving home a message, but this heavy-handed, numbing version of the fairy tale about a prince turned into a frog – here he’s a green crusader bent on teaching the spoiled princess about composting and the three R’s – is a well-intentioned but charmless show. (JK)
Jul 2 at 4:15, Jul 3 at noon, Jul 5 at 5:45 pm, Jul 6 at 1:45 pm, Jul 8 at 3:15 pm, Jul 9 at 6 pm, Jul 10 at 7:15 pm, Jul 11 at 1:30 pm. Palmerston Library .

A funny thing happened on my way to shoot the czar by Kurt Schneiderman (Subversive). This stream-of-conciousness drama looks at a crucial event in the last century. Jul 2 at 5:30 pm, Jul 3 at 6:30 pm, Jul 4 at 8 pm, Jul 7 at 7 pm, Jul 9 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm, Jul 11 at 12:30 pm. Helen Gardiner Phelan .

A funny thing happened on the way to decorum by Jeff Wener (Soul Proprietor). Wener's solo comedy looks at the desire for approval. Jul 2 at 9:30 pm, Jul 3 at noon, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 5 pm, Jul 8 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm, Jul 11 at 2:30 pm. Royal St George .

GBS by Jason Hall (DeCo). Two brothers are forced to deal with the tensions in their relationship. Jul 3 at noon, Jul 4 at 8:30 pm, Jul 7 at 3:30 pm, Jul 8 at 4:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11 pm, Jul 10 at 7:30 pm. Factory Studio .

Gulag Fairytale by Gabrielle Alexis Aarons (Pure Honey Opera). This junk opera combines screaming, bells and brutality. Jul 2 at 10:30 pm, Jul 4 at 1 pm, Jul 5 and 9 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 1:30 pm, Jul 8 at 6 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm. Artword .

 R    T   the hope slide by Joan MacLeod (Terri-Lyn Storey). Rating: NNN
Joan MacLeod’s moving piece blends the rebellious Doukhobors, the 90s AIDS crisis and a narrator who reflects back on her high-school angst. Terri-Lyn Storey’s solo performance works for the most part, but her grade 9 student strays into unnecessary histrionics and caricature. (JK)
Jul 2 and 6 at 9 pm, Jul 3 and 9 at 5 pm, Jul 4 at 3:30 pm, Jul 5 at 1:30 pm, Jul 10 at 11 pm. Poor Alex .

 C   HOw We Became by Max Hancock (Theatre Rumpus). Creation myths from around the world get performed. Jul 3 at 7:30 pm, Jul 4 at 12:30 pm, Jul 5-6 at 4:30 pm, Jul 7 at 12:15 pm, Jul 8 at 4:45 pm, Jul 10 at 3:15 pm, Jul 11 at 7:15 pm. Palmerston Library .

 R  T   INANNA by Claire Calnan (Donikers Daily). Rating: NNNN
Writer/director Claire Calnan creates theatrical magic with this Sumerian myth about the goddess Inanna. Combining music, comedy and sexuality in a potent blend, Calnan and her cast - led by the fine Jenny Young as the mercurial goddess - capture the audience right from the start. - (JK)
Jul 1-11 at 7 pm (no show Jul 6). Royal St George Quadrangle , 120 Howland.

insatiable by the company (Showing Pink). This collective work is inspired by Anais Nin and her look at sexual relationships. Jul 1-5 and 7-11 at 7:30 pm. Victory Cafe , 581 Markham.

 R   IN THE BOOTH by Dimetre Alexiou (Flamejob). Rating: NNN There's lots of potential in Dimetre Alexiou's often very funny script about the goings-on in the tech booth of a production of Twelfth Night. But the script - especially the abrupt ending - needs tightening, and only Tabitha Keast adds nuance to her role as the controlling stage manager. (GS)
Jul 1 at 7 pm, Jul 3 at 9:30 pm, Jul 5 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 6:30 pm, Jul 8 at noon, Jul 9 at 11 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm. Factory Mainspace .

 R   IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK by Helen Juvonen and Tina McCulloch (Thought for Food). Rating: NN
These two short unpretentious plays - one about roommates who both go on humiliating auditions, the other about modern relationships - are probably paired because of their O. Henry-like twists. There are strong moments in both, but the scripts need tightening. (GS) Jul 2 at 11 pm, Jul 3 at 6:30 pm, Jul 5 at 7 pm, Jul 6 at 12:30 pm, Jul 8 at 9 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm. Factory Studio .

 R   jack & jill by Jin Huh (XL Productions). Rating: NN
A troubled husband and wife – he’s Korean/Canadian, she’s Caucasian/Canadian – go through a rough patch around work and pregnancy. The dialogue’s stilted and the direction slow-paced, but there’s a germ of a play here about a multicultural marriage if the characters were invested with believable theatricality. (JK)
Jul 2 at 11 pm, Jul 3 and 10 at 3:30 pm, Jul 5 at 8 pm, Jul 7 at 12:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10 pm, Jul 11 at 6:30 pm. Poor Alex .

jail bait by Bruce McKenna (Box Girls). Two school girls and others end up in jail and at a swank political fundraiser in this dark comedy. Jul 1 at 11 pm, Jul 4 and 11 at 5:30 pm, Jul 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 7 and 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 8 at 7 pm. Royal St George .

Jem Rolls by Jem Rolls (Big Word Performance Poetry). The rapid-fire spoken word artist from Edinburgh returns. Jul 2 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 12:30 pm, Jul 4 at 10 pm, Jul 6 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 5 pm, Jul 8 at 7:30 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm. St Vladimir's .

 T   jeNNYDOG by Harry Standjofski (Renegade). A modern Canadian relationship involves sex, death and animals. Jun 2 at 4 pm, Jul 4 at 2 pm, Jul 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 6 at 5 pm, Jul 9 at noon, Jul 10 at 10:30 pm. Factory Studio .

johnny shot the jazzman - NN by Dillon McManamy (Mind Fiend). Written and directed by 14-year-old Dillon McManamy and performed by a cast mostly in their teens, this first part of a trilogy that explores the meaning of morality is admirably ambitious in its style and content. There's still lots to be realized in the writing and performing, but here's a chance to see the work of a budding artist who knows how to use his head. - (JK) Jul 2 at 9:30 pm, Jul 3 at 11:30 pm, Jul 5 at 7 pm, Jul 6 at 12:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 11 at 4 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

kentucky waterfall by Jason Neufeld (Brand NeuWorks). Neufeld's play is billed as a love story for cynics. Jul 1 at 10 pm, Jul 4 at 4 pm, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 9:30 pm, Jul 8 at 3 pm, Jul 9 at 8 pm, Jul 10 at noon. Factory Studio .

 R   THE KUPPS RUNNETH OVER by Doug Morency and Ayumi Iizuka (Zuka Box). Rating: NNN
There are some gut-bustingly funny sketches and scenes in this variety show style birthday for God thrown by a pair of religious TV hosts, and it's a great comic showcase for the under-seen performer Ayumi Iizuki. Too bad we don't see more cracks in the hosts' marriage, which would give the show more edge and momentum. (GS)
Jul 3 at 8 pm, Jul 4 at 2:30 pm, Jul 6 at 10:30 pm, Jul 9 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at noon, Jul 11 at 2 pm. Artword .

 T   LATE NITE @ THE FRINGE WITH THE RuMOLI BROS (Canned Laughter). The nightly talk show returns with different guests each show. Jul 1-10 at 9 pm. Free. Fringe Club , 292 Brunswick.

 R   LENNY AND RENO by Josh Bloch (Gooey Duck/Talking Camel). Rating: NNN
There are patches of good writing and winning touches of clown in this piece about a wife who battles her husband's seduction by big bucks - think of it as art versus commercialism - but the production only flies with Rebecca Auerbach's grounded Reno, a character with a rich emotional life. - (JK) Jul 3 and 7 at 9:30 pm, Jul 5 at 1 pm, Jul 6 at 2:30 pm, Jul 9 at 6:30 pm, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm. Royal St George .

LIGHT EXPLORATIONS OF A DARKER NATURE by Malgorzata Nowacka (Chimera Project). The company presents two dance pieces by Nowacka. Jul 3 at 8 pm, Jul 6 at 4 pm, Jul 8 at 1:30 pm, Jul 9 at 9:30 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm, Jul 11 at 12:30 pm. Factory Mainspace .

 R   LIMINAL by Xanthe Faulkner (fairGame). Rating: NN
This well-meaning look at two lonely people trapped in their lives who fail to connect is gently poetic, but it lacks surprise. The duo give spirited performances, but they're less certain with the dance movements they're frequently - and awkwardly - asked to execute to show their inner lives. (GS) Jul 2 and 8 at 7:30 pm, Jul 3 at 3:30 pm, Jul 4 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at 3 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm, Jul 10 at 11 pm. Artword .

Looney Bin by Jason Murray (Upstage). A 50s family tries to keep up with the Joneses in this comedy. Jul 2 and 10 at 7:30 pm, Jul 3 at 11:30 pm, Jul 4 at 4 pm, Jul 7 at noon, Jul 8 at 6 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm. St Vladimir's .

 T   "loVELY" by Aaron Bushkowsky (Percolator). A woman attempts to understand her depression. Jul 2 at 5:30 pm, Jul 4 at 12:30 pm, Jul 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 7 at 4:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10:30 pm, Jul 11 at 5 pm. Factory Mainspace .

THE LUMINOUS VEIL by Amanda Conrad, Dan Fisher, Grania Maguire, Massimo Pagliaroli, Marisa Victor and Dejan Zahirovic (Real Live Theatre). The solution to suicide on the Bloor Street Viaduct provides a look at art and humans. Jul 3 at 11 pm, Jul 4 at 4 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 9 at 6:30 pm, Jul 10 at noon, Jul 11 at 2 pm. Factory Mainspace .

 R   LUNATIC VAN BEETHOVEN by Keir Cutler (Doctor Keir Co). Rating: NN
Shakespeare expert and frequent Fringer Keir Cutler has almost worn out his welcome with this disappointing pseudo lecture dispelling myths about the great composer. Few genuine musical insights (or any great performances - Cutler's singing voice is like nails on blackboard), just random bits of trivia, delivered in Cutler's usual overbearing style. (GS)
Jul 2 at 7 pm, Jul 3 at 1:30 pm, Jul 4 at 9:30 pm, Jul 6 at 5:30 pm, Jul 7 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 7:30 pm, Jul 11 at 5:30 pm. Helen Gardiner Phelan .

 R   magda's beauty secrets by Dianne Forrest (Degenerate Art). A retired spa owner shares her beauty tips, which blend into her own story of being a mistreated Pole in Nazi Germany. Not as ironic or horrifying as playwright Diane Forrest intends, and performer Corinne Conley provides little emotion for the character.(JK)
Jul 3 and 7 at 8:30 pm, Jul 5 at 1:30 pm, Jul 6 at 3 pm, Jul 8 and 10 at 5 pm, Jul 9 at 10 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

 T   NANA - NNNN by Olwen Wymark (Ante-M).
Michelle Ouellet confidently directs a 10-person cast in this richly theatrical adaptation of Emile Zola's naturalistic novel about the rise and fall of a 19th century Parisian courtesan. Superb set pieces abound, and the hard-working ensemble is full of lots of up-and-coming talented actors. A must-see. - (GS) Jul 2 at 4 pm, Jul 4 at 3:30 pm, Jul 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 6 at 5 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm, Jul 10 at 10:30 pm. Robert Gill .

nice guy by Kevin Noecker and Charlene Carroll (Stones and Sticks). The writers perform their drama about the violence and power between men and women. Jul 2 at 8 pm, Jul 3 at 11:30 pm, Jul 5 at noon, Jul 6 at 1:30 pm, Jul 7 at 10 pm, Jul 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 10 at 6:30 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

A night at the moulin rouge by Heidi Rayden and Autumn Fawn (A-Live Interactive). The fate of the famous Paris club is threatened in this interactive comedy. Jul 1-3, 5-6, 8 and 11 at 7:30 pm, Jul 4 at 3 pm, Jul 9-10 at 10 pm. Labyrinth Lounge , 298 Brunswick.

 T   'Night Mother by Marsha Norman (Venus in Spurs). Norman's prize-winning two-hander about the right to commit suicide gets a staging. Jul 1 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at 1:30 pm, Jul 4 at 5:30 pm, Jul 5 at 5 pm, Jul 6 at 10:30 pm, Jul 9 at 3 pm, Jul 10 at 7:30 pm. Factory Mainspace .

the ninja at sekigahara by Richard Lobbenberg (Niyen Productions). A man in 17th century Japan tries to find meaning in his life and situation. Jul 1 at 7 pm, Jul 3 at 9:30 pm, Jul 4 at 4:30 pm, Jul 7 at 5:30 pm, Jul 9 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm, Jul 11 at 2 pm. Helen Gardiner Phelan .

OMIE FINDS HIS WAY by Dave McKay (DeGrassi Knoll). A clown's world is changed when he becomes a ward of the state. Jul 1, 3, 6, 8, and 10 at 9 pm, Jul 2, 4, 7, 9 and 11 at 10 pm. Parachute Dome , 15 Devonshire.

 R   ONE MAN LORD OF THE RINGS by Charles Ross (PKF Productions). Rating: NNNNN
Maybe only Peter Jackson and the Oscar-winning team behind the LOTR films would fully appreciate Charles Ross's brilliant homage to them. He's part fan, part critic and one hell of an actor, recreating key moments in the trilogy, injecting wiseass humour at pivotal moments and even hitting the emotional notes. Truly precious. (GS)
Jul 2 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at 5 pm, Jul 4 at 1:30 pm, Jul 6 at 9 pm, Jul 8-9 at 7 pm, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm. Helen Gardiner Phelan .

 T   An Open Mind by Nour Al Kawaja (Going Nowhere). Al Kawaja plays a hopeful character who journeys inside the human mind. Jul 1 at 7:30 pm, Jul 3 at 4:30 pm, Jul 4 at 12:30 pm, Jul 5 at 10 pm, Jul 7 at 11 pm, Jul 8 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 9 pm. Royal St George .

 C    R   OUCH MY TOE by Jonathan Crombie and Lisa Lambert (Owl Day). Rating: NNNN
This KidsVenue trio of tales about toe-stubbing involves audience participation and some light, fluffy fun. It works because of the charming, ingratiating performances of Jonathan Crombie and Lisa Lambert, who sing their clever lyrics with style and improvise when the occasion demands. (JK) Jul 2 at noon, Jul 4 and 11 at 6 pm, Jul 5 at 7:15 pm, Jul 6 at 3:15 pm, Jul 7 at 11 am, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 12:30 pm. Palmerston Library .

 R   OVERLORDS! by Lee Smart and Paul Bates (Overlords). Rating: NNN
Those terrific Second City alumni Paul Bates and Lee Smart bring their malleable mugs, elastic bodies and tons of geeky enthusiasm to this silly sci-fi premise about two alien overlords who attempt to take over Earth by rounding up all its porn. An overly shrill performance by sole female Christy Bruce doesn't prevent this from being a solid Fringe show. (GS)
Second City alumni Smart and Bates play an evil alien odd couple. Jul 2 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at noon, Jul 5 at 2 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 8 at 6 pm, Jul 9 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 3 pm. Robert Gill .

the pain of macho by Rick Najera (SG Productions). Seven characters look at machismo and immigration. Jul 2 at 4:30 pm, Jul 4 at 9 pm, Jul 5 at 2 pm, Jul 7 and 9 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at 5 pm, Jul 11 at 12:30 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

 R   the passion of the chris: a scourge of plays by christopher durang by Christopher Durang (Hermoine Jobbing Theatricals). Rating: NNN
These nine short Christopher Durang plays are of middling quality, though his attacks on the church and the right-wing nuclear family can be screamingly funny. The committed cast gives them the right amount of acid. (JK)
Jul 3 at 8:30 pm, Jul 4 at 1 pm, Jul 5 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at 7 pm, Jul 8 at 2 pm, Jul 9 at 11:30 pm, Jul 10 at 3:30 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

pilk's madhouse by Henry Pilk (Ribbit). This comedy is being touted as Monty Python meets Quentin Tarantino. Jul 2 at 7:30 pm, Jul 4 at 5:30 pm, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 6 at 11 pm, Jul 7 at 2 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm, Jul 10 at 8 pm. Poor Alex .

 R   PINOCCHIO by Screwed & Clued (Screwed & Clued). Rating: NNNN
Stewart Matthews and Justin Sage-Passant transform the children’s story into an after-lights-out, often-rhyming, contemporary adult fairy tale told by two boys in PJs. Using little but their voices, bodies and a cuddly teddy as the wooden boy, they create a dozen clever characterizations and provide some surprising, serious and upsetting plot turns. (JK)
Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at 5:30 pm, Jul 4 at 6 pm, Jul 6 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 8:30 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm, Jul 10 at 8 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

Point of Distraction by Aaron Abrams (Anderson Bramson). This dark comedy looks at the mass media's impact on love. Jul 2 at 7:30 pm, Jul 4 at 10:30 pm, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 11 pm, Jul 8 at 3 pm, Jul 9 at 1:30 pm, Jul 11 at 7 pm. Factory Mainspace .

 R   POND LIFE by Gordon Rand (Bloodreign). Rating: NNNN
Two couples at a dinner party, friends since high school, go at social conventions and each other in writer/director Gordon Rand’s often wicked, darkly nasty script. The script starts to fade near the end, but the expert ensemble, who attack the farce in a ferociously dedicated manner, never drops the ball. (JK)
Jul 1 and 7 at 7 pm, Jul 3 at 8:30 pm, Jul 4 at 12:30 pm, Jul 6 at 2:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11:30 pm, Jul 11 at noon. Poor Alex .

Postcards from the Heart (The World Tour) by Harry Lewis (Heartsounds). Songwriter Lewis and others sing about love and romance. Jul 2 and 8 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 2 pm, Jul 5 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at noon, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm, Jul 11 at 3:30 pm. Artword .

PYGM@ILION by the company (Gruppo Rubato). This comedy looks at the way e-mail rules our lives. Jul 3 at 7 pm, Jul 5 at 6:30 pm, Jul 6 at 4 pm, Jul 8 at 3:30 pm, Jul 9 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at 2 pm. Poor Alex .

 T   Random Acts of Love - NNNN by Bruce Gooch (Shakespeare in the Rough).
Bruce Gooch's absorbing two-hander about a couple of middle aged actors who rehash an old affair while rehearsing a show about love in Shakespeare is clever, moving and accessible enough to become a hot commercial property. Sanjay Talwar subtly directs the show, with a poetic ending that will send shivers up your spine. - (GS) Jul 1 and 5 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at 3:30 pm, Jul 6 at 5 pm, Jul 7 at 1:30 pm, Jul 9 at noon, Jul 10 at 10:30 pm. St Vladimir's .

 R   THE RAP CANTERBURY TALES by Baba Brinkman (Babasword). Rating: NNN
Baba Brinkman has a great time with rhymes and demonstrates major oratory skillz in his energetic, respectful and consistently clever rap adaptation of four of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. But the show's production - especially the lighting and the anti-climactic finale - needs work. - (GS) Jul 3 at 2 pm, Jul 5 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 6:30 pm, Jul 8 at noon, Jul 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 10 at 9 pm. St Vladimir's .

 C   The REally REal adventures of Scott Free and Will Do by Lesley Halferty and Kate Keenan (Shrimp Magnet). Best friends let their imaginations run away with them. Jul 2 at 7 pm, Jul 3 and 7 at 3 pm, Jul 5 at 1:30 pm, Jul 6 at 7:15 pm, Jul 8 at 12:15 pm, Jul 9 at 4:30 pm, Jul 10 at 1:45 pm. Palmerston Library .

 T    R   THE REEFER MAN by Russell Bennett and Gillian Stevens-Guille (Big Smoke).Rating: NNN
Adept at physical comedy and several impressions, co-writer Russell Bennett rolls up a few too many plot points (and puns on the word "high") into this play about a lawyer's personal stand against pot laws. But his energy is infectious, and the show perks up in the second half. (GS)
Jul 1 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at 3 pm, Jul 4 at 6 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 8 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 9 pm, Jul 11 at 3:30 pm. Helen Gardiner Phelan .

 T   rice pudding by Janet Banks (grolier 128). A teen does dishes at a seniors home to become socially aware. Jul 1 at 7:30 pm, Jul 3 at 2 pm, Jul 5 at 9:30 pm, Jul 6 at 4:30 pm, Jul 7 at 12:30 pm, Jul 8 at 6:30 pm, Jul 11 at 7 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

r.o.c. – republic of confusion by Zoe Huang (Roofwalker Lab). A Taiwanese Canadian returns to a much-changed Taiwan after a decade. Jul 1 and 8 at 7 pm, Jul 3 and 10 at 8:30 pm, Jul 4, 7 and 9 at 5:30 pm. Poor Alex Cabaret .

sabotage: in fine form by Shenoah Allen and Mark Chavez (burning cities new works). The Fringe vets return with a surreal comedy about a horse and his man. Jul 1, 2, 4 and 8 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3, 6-7 and 9-10 at 7 pm. Poor Alex Cabaret .

 T   7 SINS - NN by James Judd (A Cellar Full Of Noise). Gay American comic James Judd is an in-your-face kind of performer, and some of his stories are side-splittingly funny. He's less successful, though, when he drops out of show-biz character and tries to understand Canadian culture; the rhythms go all to hell. - (JK) Jul 2 at 4:30 pm, Jul 4 at 1 pm, Jul 5 at 6 pm, Jul 6 at 8 pm, Jul 9 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 9:30 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

 T   SHAKESPEARE'S COMIC OLYMPICS by William Shakespeare and the company (Upstart Crow). An Olympics contest draws from the Bard's 17 comedies and romances. Jul 1-2 and 6-9 at 7 pm, Jul 3-4 and 10-11 at 2 pm. Trinity College Field , 15 Devonshire.

showboatin' by Marc Plant (React2theatre). This dark comedy looks at the current obsession with talent shows and fame. Jul 2 at 11 pm, Jul 4 at 7 pm, Jul 6 at 5:30 pm, Jul 7 at 6:30 pm, Jul 8 at 4 pm, Jul 9 at 12:30 pm, Jul 10 at 7:30 pm. Royal St George .

 R   SIMPLE. CELIBATE. SOBER. by Soo Garay (Nails and Ribbons). Rating: NNN
Shawnya, an exotic dancer trying to make sense of her past, comes to life in writer/performer Soo Garay’s hands, though the poetic sections and reasons for character change aren’t as clear as individual narrative episodes. Garay’s performing intensity and physicality are central in creating a woman who’s trying to connect anew with her body and her spirit. (JK) Jul 2 at 4:30 pm, Jul 5 at 5 pm, Jul 7 at 11:30 pm, Jul 8 at 6:30 pm, Jul 9 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 9:30 pm. Poor Alex .

 R   6 MONTHS FLAT by Yolanda Beasley (Ugly Duckling). Rating: N
Three London flatmates try to sort out their lives over a six-month period as they deal with personal problems and various offstage short-term roomies. Beasley's provided sketchy characterizations, little sense of dialogue and no directorial spark to a half-baked piece. - (JK) Jul 3 at 1:30 pm, Jul 5 and 11 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 12:30 pm, Jul 9 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 11 pm. Royal St George .

Slacks and Tops by Harry Kondoleon (J Productions). A murder occurs as a family prepares to leave for Africa. Jul 3 and 11 at 7 pm, Jul 4 at 5:30 pm, Jul 6 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at 3:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11 pm, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm. St Vladimir's .

slap and tickle by the company (Slap & Tickle). The comedy troupe presents a show of hip satire. Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at noon, Jul 4 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 8:30 pm, Jul 8 at 11:30 pm, Jul 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 10 at 5 pm. Poor Alex .

Sleeper effect by Shawn Riedle (Fisheye Pseudo-Theatre). A successful man wakes up from a dream in this adaptation of a work by Thoreau. Jul 2 and 8 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 3:30 pm, Jul 5 at 10:30 pm, Jul 9 at 5:30 pm, Jul 10 at 4:30 pm, Jul 11 at 3 pm. Robert Gill .

 R  SLEEPLESS by Denis McGrath and Scott White (Cattle). Rating: NNN
Set in a sleep disorder clinic, Denis McGrath and Scott White's musical is spotty; snappy moments alternate with overlong scenes and up-tempo melodies best the ballads. The cast works hard, the entertaining standouts being Eddie Glen and Sharon Heldt as a bitchy married couple and Racheal McCaig as an overworked nurse covering for a golfing doctor.
Jul 2 at 6 pm, Jul 4 at 2:30 pm, Jul 5 and 9 at 5 pm, Jul 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 9:30 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

soundtrack (g & t). This show mixes improv with DJ music. Jul 2 at 8 pm, Jul 4 at 4:30 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 5:30 pm, Jul 8 at 11:30 pm, Jul 10 at 12:30 pm, Jul 11 at 7 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

stealing freedom by Stephanie Nickerson (Burning Bridges). This winner of the Fringe 2004 New Play Contest is about a Canadian woman accused of being a terrorist. Jul 1 at 11 pm, Jul 3 at 5:30 pm, Jul 4 at 7:30 pm, Jul 5 at 3 pm, Jul 7 at 4 pm, Jul 9 at 8:30 pm, Jul 11 at 1 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

the struggle by Claudio Chiodo (DoubleSee). A man is confused by a group after it's experienced tragedy. Jul 1 at 7:30 pm, Jul 3 at 10 pm, Jul 5 at 3:30 pm, Jul 7 at 4 pm, Jul 8 at 12:30 pm, Jul 9 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 2 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

 T   sunday night live by the company (Sketchersons). The 11-person troupe presents two shows of all new sketch. Jul 4 (w/ guest Snow) and Jul 11 (guest Scott Thompson) at 10 pm. Poor Alex .

THE SUPERBOWL AND OTHER STORIES by Donna Sellinger (Totally Realistic). Sellinger tells a trio of stories involving a melting cake, a shaving basin and a hurricane. Jul 1 at 9:30 pm, Jul 2 at 5 pm, Jul 3 at 3 pm, Jul 4 at 10 pm, Jul 5 at 4 pm, Jul 6 at 1 pm. Royal St George .

 R  SWIMMING LESSONS WITH PAISLEY KITE by Emily Pearlman (Cross Country Trampoline). Rating: NNN
Though her script often loses its way, Emily Pearlman is oddly endearing as a cynical, noise rock-loving, chemistry-obsessed 16-year-old who grudgingly backpacks through Israel. Often savagely funny and gently poetic. - (GS) Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 2 at 4 pm, Jul 3 at 5:30 pm, Jul 4 at 8:30 pm, Jul 5 at 2 pm, Jul 6 at 12:30 pm. St Vladimir's .

TAKE by Ryan Griffith (Next Folding). A New Brunswick man tries to convince two buddies to take part in a heist. Jul 2 and 5-9 at 9 pm, Jul 3-4 and 10-11 at 3:30 pm. Hart House Arbor Room , 7 Hart House Circle.

A tasta' new yowark by Maurina Gomes (Lotsa' Fun). This funny, intense play explores the lives of seven people in a New York restaurant. Jul 2 at 9:30 pm, Jul 3 at 12:30 pm, Jul 6 at 6:30 pm, Jul 7 at 5:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10 pm, Jul 10 at 3:30 pm, Jul 11 at 2:30 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

 C    R   THE THREE B’S: THE WAILING IN THE WINGS by Greg Finnegan (BMTC). Rating: NNN
A broad, affectionate spoof of the Nancy Drew mysteries in which a trio of schoolgirl detectives – they’re also a singing trio – deal with a theatre ghost, underground passages and mysterious strangers. It’s a bit too breathless at the start, but the fun’s there once everyone settles down. (JK)
Jul 2 at 1:15 pm, Jul 3 and 8 at 6 pm, Jul 4, 7 and 10 at 4:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11 am, Jul 11 at noon. Palmerston Library .

TIM RYKERT DOESN'T LIVE HERE ANYMORE by Tim Rykert (Tim Rykert). A Torontonian transplanted to Vancouver looks at the rivalry between the cities. Jul 3 at 4 pm, Jul 4 at 10:30 pm, Jul 6 at noon, Jul 7 at 11:30 pm, Jul 8 at 2 pm, Jul 10 at 8 pm. Tarragon Extra Space .

Twenty-one Rants about Working in a Drugstore by Jordan Hall (Slightly Skewed). This dark comedy looks at working in an all-night drugstore. Jul 1 at 10:30 pm, Jul 3 at 5 pm, Jul 4 at 7 pm, Jul 5 at 12:30 pm, Jul 7 at 11 pm, Jul 8 at 4:30 pm, Jul 10 at 6 pm. Robert Gill .

 R   UBU THE KING by Alfred Jarry (Rhino). Rating: NN
This absurdist French classic about a cowardly man pushed by his wife to take over thethrone ­ writer Alfred Jarry works in echoes of Macbeth and Hamlet ­ gets a disappointing presentation, with a performance technique that feels amateurish and key actors who still don’t know their lines. (JK)
Jul 1-5 and 7-11 at 9 pm. Victory Café , 581 Markham.

ULTIMATE ROCK N ROLL SHOWDOWN FROM SPACE by Hillary Thomson and Kendra Sartorelli (Rock N Roll Puppetshow). Heavy-metal alien puppets wage an intergalactic battle of the bands. Jul 1, 3, 6, 8 and 10 at 10 pm, Jul 2, 4, 7, 9, and 11 at 9 pm. Parachute Dome , 15 Devonshire.

UNCALLED FOR: ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT (Carpe Burn). This improv comedy show draws on audience suggestions. Jul 3 at 8 pm, Jul 4 at 12:30 pm, Jul 6 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at 5 pm, Jul 9 at 11:30 pm, Jul 11 at 1:30 pm. Robert Gill .

Under our wild sky, we hatched by Judith Cockman and Kalen Haymen (synnerz 'n Saints Ink/Visionary Eye). A mother-son production looks at parenting. Jul 3 at 8:30 pm, Jul 5 at 12:30 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 8 at 9 pm, Jul 9 at 5 pm, Jul 10 at 1:30 pm, Jul 11 at 4 pm. St Vladimir's .

The Vagrant - NN by Troy Truelove (Barndoor).
Troy Babcock-Hill skillfully transforms himself from a grizzled street person to a middle-class father, but the script about a street person whose luck suddenly changes is confusing, and the many time shifts (which break off halfway through for no reason) are predictable. - (GS) Jul 2 at 10:30 pm, Jul 4 at 7 pm, Jul 6 at 2 pm, Jul 7 at 11 pm, Jul 8 at 3 pm, Jul 9 at 8 pm, Jul 10 at noon. St Vladimir's .

vignettes in the dark by Christine Estima (Rebel Theatre). Three friends contemplate life during the 2003 blackout. Jul 1 at 9 pm, Jul 3 at 2 pm, Jul 4 at 10:30 pm, Jul 7 at 11:30 pm, Jul 8 at 3:30 pm, Jul 9 at 7 pm, Jul 11 at 1 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

 T    R  virginia by Martha Cronyn (Heathcliff/Orange Cat). Rating: NNNN
Some people will find 90 minutes about Virginia Woolf too long, but adapter/actor Martha Cronyn gives a dedicated performance under Rosemary Dunsmore’s direction. Capturing the writer and the woman’s myriad moods, Cronyn offers an intelligent, well-argued view of a rich, passionate spirit. (JK)
Jul 1 at 8:30 pm, Jul 3 at 1:30 pm, Jul 5 at 11 pm, Jul 6 at 7 pm, Jul 7 at 3:30 pm, Jul 8 at 8 pm, Jul 11 at 4:30 pm. Poor Alex .

VOICE OF ONE CALLING by Brian Wigg (Special Nobody). A jailed Jewish prophet must justify his life and faith. Jul 3 at 10 pm, Jul 6 at 1 pm, Jul 8 at 5 pm, Jul 9 at 8:30 pm, Jul 10 at 12:30 pm, Jul 11 at 3 pm. Poor Alex .

 R   waiting for trudeau: the return of the king by McCaig and McCaig (Fence Post). Rating: NNNN
A fast-paced musical revue about Canada’s history and cultural icons strikes lots of targets dead-on and sometimes falls flat with groaners, but the energy in this audience-pleasing show can’t be beat. (JK)
Jul 3 at 7 pm, Jul 5 and 7 at 12:30 pm, Jul 6 at 10:30 pm, Jul 8 at 8:30 pm, Jul 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 11 at 5:30 pm. Tarragon Mainspace .

  T   the weir by Conor McPherson (MacKenzieRo). Rating: NNNN
Played in the intimacy of an actual drinking hole, Conor McPherson's combination of character sketches and ghost stories pulls the audience into its engrossing tale. The cast in this fine version makes the most of the tensions and connections between the regulars and one newcomer in an Irish pub.
Jul 1-4 and 7-11 at 7:30 pm. Rowers Pub & Grill , 150 Harbord.

Welcome to Dumpsville, Pop. You by Rhonda Riche and Dorothy Gebhart (Dethawed). This double bill by two comics looks at families and aging rock stars. Jul 2 at 4 pm, Jul 4 at 9 pm, Jul 6 at 2:30 pm, Jul 7 at 8 pm, Jul 8 at 4:30 pm, Jul 9 at noon, Jul 10 at 9:30 pm. Factory Mainspace .

 T   R   WHOLE IN ONE by Paul McLaughlin (Reading and Writing Group). Rating: NN
Paul McLaughlin's overly long play is essentially a series of golf jokes and random facts about lightning. A few solid yuks, but I wish he'd drive home his points more efficiently and with more convincing character development. - (GS) Jul 2 at 5:30 pm, Jul 4 and 11 at 2 pm, Jul 5 at 5 pm, Jul 6 at 8:30 pm, Jul 8 at 10:30 pm. St Vladimir's .

the year of the panda by Vanessa Macrea and Trish Cooper (Meow Mix Tango). Comic performers Macrea and Cooper present funny monologues. Jul 2 and 4 at 7 pm, Jul 3, 8 and 10 at 5:30 pm, Jul 6 and 9 at 8:30 pm. Poor Alex Cabaret .

you can't live on cute forever by Jonathan Rothman (Homemade Jam). A Jewish family sits down to Shabbat dinner and reveals lots of secrets and lies. Jul 3 at 6:30 pm, Jul 4 at 2:30 pm, Jul 6 at 10 pm, Jul 7 at 2 pm, Jul 8 at 8:30 pm, Jul 9 at 11 pm, Jul 11 at 4 pm. Royal St George .

YUKON OR BUST by Morgan Toombs (Hobley). A Yukon woman tells how she became a famous Canadian stripper. Jul 2 at 6 pm, Jul 3 at 1:30 pm, Jul 7 at 8 pm, Jul 9 at 3:30 pm, Jul 10 at 9 pm, Jul 11 at noon. Factory Studio .