Toronto Fringe Review: DADS

DADS is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a show about dads, and our often nuanced and complicated relationships with them. Performer/writer Taylor Trowbridge tells the audience about her dad, and in turn, asks about their dads.

Though an integral part of the show, the audience interaction is low pressure, and easy to opt in and out of. Speaking is optional, and nobody is called upon who doesn’t volunteer.

Most of it is entirely nonverbal, like raising your hand if a statement applies to you, or filling out the index cards that are on all the seats when you enter the theatre.

DADS is more of a gentle chuckle than a gut-buster in terms of overall tone. It’s tender and lighthearted while still talking about serious emotions and subjects. Taylor does a great job of creating a warm, welcoming cradle to hold the audience in while they reflect on their relationships with their dads. In addition to Taylor’s excellent facilitating, the intimate venue and in-the-round staging helps the show feel like a conversation between audience and performer, even if you choose not to speak.

The emotional side is balanced with a 10-minute stand-up comedy section about halfway through the show. Each show features a different comedian who does a set about their dad in some capacity. The show I saw featured Nikki Bon, one half of the cast of 2% of Condoms, another Fringe show about fathers (or lack thereof).

It was a fun contrast to the more serious material preceding it, though I would be interested to see the segment integrated more smoothly into the rest of the show. The stand-up spot, plus the stories offered from the audience make every show slightly different. Make sure to check the show program if you want to see a particular comedian.

Equal parts honest, vulnerable, and playful, DADS is a show with a big funny bone and a big heart.

DADS is on until July 10 as part of the Toronto Fringe. Tickets and schedule.