No Joke

It is rare to see performances that both entertain and enlighten—which is why you won’t want to miss seeing “No Joke.” The play is a deeply thought provoking and compelling exploration of the gray areas of legal and illegal American immigration stories and conflicts. An American Instagram influencer’s (performed by Omilon) obnoxious entitlement and naiveté carries the energy of the show and allows the audience to engage more fully with the story because our ignorance is no match for hers. She speaks with a DACA recipient (Rocabado) whose story will tear at your heartstrings and reveals the frustrations of the American Immigration system even when every rule is followed. The Instagrammer then speaks with a legal Italian immigrant (Tombacco) ... full review

I expected this show to be more comedic, but it was haunting. Gina Omilon has written something that is both chillingly humorous, but also incredibly informative and terrifying. Incredibly well-written and well done. I wish my conservative family members could see this. ... full review

This show was quick and to the point. It isn't very long, but within seconds you are shown the human condition in a myriad of comical, relatable, and sad truths. A satire that leaves the audience to ponder their position/role in this country after being given a glimpse into multiple perspectives. No joke.... full review

My overall impression of No Joke was truly amazing. It has been a while since I was able to sit and enjoy any sort of performance piece that REALLY got me thinking.... full review

"No Joke" was a powerful statement about the current status of our country. It's a direct reflection of us as Americans. We can empathize, and feel bad...but we'll never truly understand what it means to be an immigrant in this country. In the first half of "No Joke," we meet Sofia, a DACA recipient who's currently being held in a detention camp due to our poorly executed system. Because of the United States' disorganization. Sofia faces the threat of deportation to Mexico, a country she has seen very little of. Sofia, in every way except on paper, is American. Watching Sofia (Alexa Rocabado) explain to Madison (Gina Omilon) what her life is like. Later, we see entitled millennial, Madison, in an Uber/Lyft. She meets Lo... full review

Though laughs are aplenty in this insightfully provocative work by Canadian actor-writer Gina Omilon, as the name implies, this production is no comedy. Focusing on the current socio-political climate regarding immigration to the United States, as well as the potential consequences regardless of how one makes the journey, NO JOKE is a call to redefine humanity in a technologically, self-obsessed world. It's central theme will resonate with audiences long after this festival is over. It is worth noting that the show's program is both a biographical pamphlet as well as a call for equality, compassion and action. This is one show that could, and should, easily continue on through episodic television. Those voices need to be heard by the masses,... full review

The show was great! It raised a lot of important questions relevant in today's political climate. It's awesome to see how deep a play can get with just two scenes and three characters. These young actors have huge talent. Very thought provoking!... full review

No Joke is a hidden Fringe gem. Those obscure shows in small theatres that don’t attract the masses, but need to. Every Fringe goer should make it a point to get into this audience. No Joke is a chilling play that makes you ashamed for recognizing even a sliver of Madison in yourself. The stupidity and ignorance of Madison, played by Gina Omilon (who also wrote the show), gets so unbearable you start to hate her. Omilon skillfully delivers an infuriating performance topped with all of the annoying entitled millennial/Gen Z attributes. Sofia, played by Alexa Rocabado, suffers the hard job of having to keep her cool while under watch in a detention camp, yet having to deal with the ignorant American in front of her. Rocabado remains steady and... full review

An intriguing short show that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about immigration. Incredible writing and a powerful social message. A must see! ... full review