Toronto Fringe Review: 2% of Condoms

Fatherlessness and faulty contraception aren't the ingredients you'd expect for a feel-good comedy, but 2% of Condoms somehow makes it work. Written and performed by Nikki Bon and Claire Cavalheiro, this semi-autobiographical show is a coming-of-age story that doesn’t end at childhood.

Told through a series of short, non-linear sketches, the show feels almost like watching episodes of a sitcom unfold on stage. The structure keeps the story moving at a brisk pace while allowing Bon and Cavalheiro to jump between childhood memories, awkward teenage moments, and adulthood without ever feeling disjointed. The occasional direct address to the audience, reminiscent of Fleabag, adds just enough context to enrich the story while squeezing in a few extra laughs along the way.

At its heart, though, 2% of Condoms is a story about friendship. Beneath all the jokes is a deeply tender look at growing up, finding your people, and navigating the relationships that shape you. And just when the show seems ready to leave you misty-eyed, it lands a perfectly timed punchline that turns those tears into laughter. It's a delicate balancing act that the performers pull off remarkably well.

The production is equally polished from a technical standpoint. Creative lighting and sound design transform the stage from one location to the next, while the cast handles scene changes with the kind of confidence that only comes from careful rehearsal. Dialogue flows naturally, with Bon and Cavalheiro playing off one another like lifelong friends, making every conversation feel just right.

By the time the lights come on, you'll probably want to text your best friend an "I love you." Or better yet, bring them to 2% of Condoms so you can both laugh, cry, and maybe send the text afterward!

2% of Condoms is on now until July 11 at the Toronto Fringe. Show times and tickets