Not My Grandmother's Daughter

I was blown away by the thoughtful vulnerability put into this solo show. The story was intimate and performed in such a brilliant way, that I found myself laughing and then crying. I haven’t longed for my own past a familial bonds like that in a while, but she effortlessly brought that out, even though telling a story that was not my own (and frankly quite different than mine). I felt that it was approached with such creativity through using a recording of the grandmother and weaving her words into this personal story of how she feels like her grandmother shaped her life. It was touching, poignant and timeless. I felt so lucky to have been taken on this magical and meaningful story, and in such an intimate setting. ... full review

A sweet show with no risks or stakes. Lovely shadow puppetry produced on a delightfully creative and practical set, this show is filled with nostalgia and is a charming homage to a grandmother. At less than thirty minutes, it lasts about the length of two starlight mints and has about as much substance. ... full review

I loved this show. I jumped out of my seat to applaud. I was chastised by a fellow audience member who didn't share my opinion - it wasn't edgy enough, it didn't have teeth. I suppose and thats why I love this piece. It's just a story. A story told with love and care and craft and it's not trying to be anything else. It's pure, it's warm, we love this performer from the moment she greets us. She connects, she welcomes us into a memory, asking us to go some place in our minds and then brings us into her world, her memory, her story and she is specific from start to finish. Her perfect vintage dress, her specific economy of motion, her perfect understanding of stillness and the perfect understanding of what she wants her story to be with all ... full review

A lovely, wholesome tribute to who seems like an exquisite human being.... full review

A sweet, personal, moving tale of intergenerational connection told through puppetry and storytelling.... full review

Not My Grandmother's Daughter is a vulnerable, nostalgic, and absolutely beautiful journey through a slice of Harley's grandmother's memories alongside the voice of her grandmother herself. You'll fall in love with Harley from the very first sentence, and somehow also fall in love with her grandmother that you've never met. In a world filled with intergenerational trauma, it was so wonderful to sit through 25 minutes of intergenerational love. ... full review

I loved this show! So pretty, heartfelt, touching, and reflective… it will make you think about family (and shadows) in a whole new way. Highly recommended!!!... full review

This show was so soothing and relaxing. I loved the puppets, silhouettes, and the wholesomeness of it. This show is the equivalent of having a conversation with your grandma over some sweet tea as she tells you about her life. I found Harley to be such a delight in her story telling and sincerity. I also really enjoyed her light box and how she would perform the actions using her shadow. It was really unique story-telling and I found myself relaxed by the whole experience. It is criminal how little reviews this show has. Definitely a must see Fringe show if you're looking for something sweet and charming. ... full review

Heartfelt and whimsical, this work reminded me that our capacity to love is our greatest strength. I walked away feeling renewed in my desire to create, play, tell stories, and take chances. ... full review

Lovingly crafted performance full of childlike wonder and the challenges of the family we are born into. An intimate and unique shadow puppet show that left me feeling reflective of the elders in my own family. ... full review