Heart Held at Knife Point

What I liked

Along with the fantastic metaphor throughout, I loved that I was laughing one minute and gasping the next. (There was a moment where, I kid you not, most of the audience gasped aloud at the sfx makeup by Kayla Franco-amazing!) Bravo to director Shayna Sternin and actors Grady Hicks, Elliot Davis, Mikah Conway and Darbianna Dinsmore for performances that were nuanced and intriguing. You are drawn into this world and feel every visceral moment. And a shout out to Autumn Scott for bringing all of this together for us to experience.

What I didn't like

As others have mentioned, the scene changes were a little clunky. But it gave me a moment to hear the original music accompanying the changes. I think the show will blossom even more when out of the Fringe confines. With this production, the show bends toward female empowerment, but with its universal themes, I could certainly see the characters played by a mix of genders. I’d like to have the opportunity to experience it again in different forms.

My overall impression

Thought-provoking and clever, writer Eliran Sternin captured the vulnerability in trying to find connection when you have no idea if the other person will literally stab you in the heart and the incredible bravery it takes to keep on trying even when you are literally bleeding on the floor. With so many Fringe shows to choose from, be sure to make time to see this one. You won’t want to miss it.