Kris Buxton-Dean (he/him)

This sprawling story masterfully ties together heartfelt journal entries, a hilarious Titanic parody, and several magic tricks into a tightly crafted commentary on youth, dreams, and the obstacles that stand in our way. Mallie McCown shines in a highly technical, wildly imaginative, and strikingly vulnerable performance you have to see to fully comprehend. The production is one of the most ambitious I’ve seen, but miraculously through the chaos and countless props and costume pieces Mallie sticks... full review

The Funeral Show has a truly hilarious premise with a lovely balance of sarcasm and heart. There is a lot of audience interaction without ever feeling intimidating and Elena’s performance is sincere and heartwarming. I had a great time sitting back and relaxing as the chaos ensued.... full review

Ghost Train is a haunting cautionary tale about the state of the world. The themes discussed grow more timely by the day, and the script unpacks the issues in a really genuine way. I was particularly moved by Laura Baggett and the way her character choices both humanize and critique a woman with a conservative mindset. This is the type of story that sticks with you and leaves you introspective about what you can do to change the course of history.... full review

One Up is a very cleanly directed, highly polished musical! The 1980s world building is on point. James Beardsley and Erik Olson were particularly brilliant as they shine in comedic supporting roles with tremendous heart. Watching this show feels like witnessing an old school musical theater classic.... full review

This was the hardest I have laughed in years. The discomfort that Reshma creates is profoundly relatable and the jokes do a terrific job replicating feeling like a wallflower at a party. For what seems like a heavily unscripted show there was a very clear arc and even some deep, emotional themes that had me near tears by the end. I LOVE and highly recommend this show!... full review

If you want to smile for an hour, this is the perfect show for you. Micah and Marnina’s chemistry is electric as they sing and laugh their way through the woes of wedding planning. The story is tender, uplifting, and laugh out loud hilarious. Somehow the show is both very polished and feels like you are getting to witness something that is happening for the very first time. I didn’t want it to end!... full review

Stellar writing drives this touching and tragic story of guilt and wavering faith. The twists of the story are hauntingly effective thanks to some really stunning lighting and tech. Additionally, the 30 minute length allows the production to be hyper focused on its main message, which uses history to initiate a nuanced philosophical debate between submission and resistance.... full review

Angeline Mirenda is a super-human sex expert! The show’s real heart and charm comes from Angeline’s detailed and informative lesson to close out the show. I learned more in one night than years worth of state mandated sex ed programs. And I genuinely think I will be able to apply the knowledge she shared in ways that could have impacts on my life inside and outside of the bedroom.... full review

Near Sex for Work is a charming flurry of surprise after surprise as you uncover Daniel Shar’s incredible life on the fringes of the porn industry. Every moment of the story was easy to watch and the jokes perfectly stuck the landing in a story that is startlingly touching. I left the show with my mind blown and my heart full.... full review

I am so grateful this wonderful showcase exists! The sense of community and camaraderie in the room was palpable, and it was particularly great to hear about some of the international shows that likely would have never made it on to my radar. It was also very nice that Jenn and Brett gave the Fringers in the audience a chance to briefly pitch their shows to the crowd. If you are looking for new shows to see or are a producer looking for an opportunity to expand your audience, this is the perfect ... full review