Marissa Rutka

30 April 1975: How We Left

marissa rutka · June 20, 2026 certified reviewer
Vivi is a beautiful storyteller. Her writing and honest delivery in retelling the tragic events her family had to go through were powerful. She is so detailed and vivid in her imagery as she describes the events, it feels like you are there with her family. And her message that kindness is a means of survival is more important than ever. ... full review

MARIO MADNESS

marissa rutka · June 30, 2025 certified reviewer
So much fun! I'm so glad Sarah brought this sketch show to Fringe. The sketches were nothing short of joyful, the ensemble was great, and Sarah has so many wonderful characters in her arsenal. A deep cut for Mario fans. ... full review

Just To Be Close To You

marissa rutka · June 29, 2025 certified reviewer
The best show I have seen in a long time. Cam is an absolute genius, and a perfect clown. Funny and vulnerable, and so playful. I couldn't stop laughing, and had so much fun being part of the play. He has a rare gift of taking in and responding to every moment, and wins over your heart as soon as he steps on stage. I would watch this show over and over again, and could never get tired of it. Everyone must see this show.... full review

Ms. Edwards

marissa rutka · June 29, 2025 certified reviewer
Just an absolutely beautiful show with a ton of heart and character(s). Sidney is dynamic, funny, warm, charismatic, and incredibly engaging as every single Ms. Edwards. It was a beautiful love letter to the women in her life who taught her everything. I fell in love with each character, who not only taught Sydney valuable lessons, but gave the audience lots to think about for themselves. It was heartfelt, honest, and it made me tear up at the end. Truly an amazing show!... full review

5:45

marissa rutka · June 29, 2025 certified reviewer
A stellar solo show! Abi has such a strong and clear voice, both in her writing and acting, and gives so much heart to a character obsessed with efficiency in life. I found the journey from finding safety in routine to the crumbling sense of security when you lose control to be profound and very relatable. Abi's performance was beautiful and dynamic – honest, funny, and personal. I hope this show continues on beyond Fringe!... full review

St Nicholas

marissa rutka · June 28, 2025 certified reviewer
A quiet, intimate, and stunning performance from Andrew Hart. He was so immersed in the character that the show had an air of personal storytelling to it, which I loved. Beautifully staged, and intentional in every moment, Hart recounts this dark tale with a haunting and wistful air. I hope this show continues beyond Fringe! ... full review

Too Good To Be True

marissa rutka · June 23, 2025 uncertified reviewer
Kyle is an INCREDIBLE performer! Truly, the minute he walked on stage the theater was transformed. It was a deeply personal and profound look into the ways that narcissism can affect and destroy a person's psyche. The music was great, and Kyle was so tightly in sync with every element of production. He was funny, heartbreaking, and vulnerable. I cannot recommend this show enough! I really think everyone needs to see this show. Kyle is an artist and performer not to be missed! ... full review

Eat the Mama

marissa rutka · June 21, 2025 certified reviewer
I loved it! Jessica tells a very hard tale of postpartum with so much heart and humor. We feel her confusion and rage as she tries to navigate the unexpected loneliness and shame she experienced in early motherhood. As someone who doesn't have kids, it was eye-opening to delve into that experience with her. And yet, through her journey, I wound up moved to tears as Jessica ends in a place that is truly and powerfully loving, both for herself and her son. Anyone who's ever felt wrong in their body... full review

One Up: The Musical

marissa rutka · June 18, 2025 certified reviewer
This show was so fun! From song one it was just an absolute joy to watch. I was so impressed with how well produced it was. Everything from the songs, cast, choreography, and production – it was really spectacular. It's a feel good piece that's a balm for the soul. And I loved the 80s and video games of it all. A surprising industry to pair with a musical, and yet it works so well. It's upbeat and heartfelt. I hope everyone sees this show!... full review

More Joy: A Mumoir

marissa rutka · June 18, 2025 certified reviewer
Suzannah is such a joy to watch! Truly, I was smiling and laughing the whole play. Suzannah takes hard feelings, like feeling lost or being constantly under the scrutiny of our own inner critic, and finds the humor and honesty in it all. She's a brilliant storyteller and writer. And I absolutely loved all the different parts of herself that she played. It's a reminder for us to connect with all our different parts, not as enemies, but as friends to understand. I can't recommend this show enough! ... full review

marissa rutka