MisShapen

MisShapen takes on a serious subject--the trauma of distorted body image--with sincerity, insight, and lots of youthful energy and humor. The large ensemble cast--all in their 20s--works surprisingly well in the small space, using blackouts and well-chosen props to switch between a variety of scenes. Several solo pieces address the very real psychic turmoil that people inflict on themselves because of their dislike or even disgust of their own bodies. The actors' honesty and vulnerability in these scenes brought cheers from the audience. The stories of three women struggling with self-image and self-esteem issues are interwoven between the monologues. The mood swings in these scenes from a desperate exercise session to a hurtful lovers' qu... full review

Misshapen is fierce, funny, and overflowing with beautiful performers who share pieces of their heart that many of us find too uncomfortable to confront even in private. The insight into our body obsessed and image obsessed culture was sharp and also allowed for moments where we all could relate. As there are so many facets to this issue in our culture and how it affects everyone differently, it was so appropriate to have a variety of forms in which to express it: humorous scenes, songs, spoken word, etc. Although the performers explore a lot of pain and crippling insecurity there is an enormous empowering and redemptive quality to this show. As the actors come together with an emotionally charged proclamation to themselves and the audience ... full review

This show introduced me to someone new, myself. I was able to see a little of me in each character. It is full of emotion and left me feeling connected to each concern. I realize that at times our focus of self is off and too much negativity of self is created within our own mind. There is nothing wrong with us no matter what we look like or who we are. MisShapen gives us permission to love ourselves and to respect everyone for what makes us unique and wonderful. This was my third time seeing this play, every time I leave with a new message. I love the passion of the actors and their strong chemistry. Their connection makes the play more real, they really told the story well. I plan on seeing it again!... full review

A terrifically energetic show with a young, vibrant, enthusiastic cast! It was a surprisingly pleasant, funny piece of agit-prop, like you see done in high schools talking about issues that are "relevant" to the students. One wishes that it had a more mature guiding hand at times to slow down some of the speeding and screaming and balance some of the acoustic dynamic issues that take place. Yet, at theFringe shows, these problems are the standard. Nevertheless, there are enough moments where people have a genuine experience and connection with the audience to keep you engaged. The costuming, acting, choreography, staging and music are all on a high school level. However, the heart, energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the idea that "we... full review

So much love on that stage. Here's some right back atcha!... full review

This show has a LOT of heart and I love what is it exploring...but it needs more development. This show sounded like "my thing", but I never got a sense of who the characters were and why they were the way they were. I didn't feel stakes and there wasn't much compelling the story forward. Because I didn't really understand where the main characters were coming from, I was confused a lot of the time. Some of the staging was very creative and I could appreciate that. I know these artists have youth on their side and I appreciate their effort very much. That being said getting a dramaturg on board could truly make this piece much more powerful and poignant. ... full review

Was writing my "like it" review in my head before I was left with tears in my eyes by the end of the show. This show has heart. True heart. True passion. Acting for acting's sake, and giving a damn good message to all who see it. Fun, funny, at times VERY powerful. A bit immature on acting side, but really something special. I found this show to be a really nice treat for me to have seen in the fringe. The show also has one of my favorite musical numbers of the fringe so far with their song about food. Very fun!... full review

MisShapen combines humor, music, and talent into this insightful play. The characters came alive as they addressed the serious issue of how body image affects everything that we do. The story is well woven with monlogues. Kudos to the bravery exhibited by the performers. My friend and I laughed and cried during this performance. If you only see one Fringe production in 2013, this is it!... full review

Great show!... full review