Toronto Fringe Review: Jackes and Jills

Ruby Jackes has reached her breaking point. She has achieved success as a stand-up comic. However, tonight it’s all been taken from her. So she’s doing her last set and she’s leaving everything on the stage.

Written and performed by Brynne Bonne, Jackes and Jills is a solo show that explores what it means to be a woman in a male-dominated field. Brynne throws herself into the role, she collapses, screams and cries. She’s manic. She’s composed. She plays the breakdown as a rebirth. She wants to be someone else but is stuck with the ashes of her who she was.

As Jackes delivers her final set, she’s examining herself as much as the toxic culture that surrounds the comedy scene. Her routine isn’t hilarious - it’s vicious. The funniest parts aren’t the jokes, in fact, her edgelord routine often undercut her very valid criticisms.

Bonne is a talent. From the moment she smashes down on the stage you’re captivated by her energy. The opening gag grabs your attention and Bonne - even in Jackes’ quiet introspective moments - doesn’t let up until it lights down. 

There’s a lot thrown at the audience. Bonne and director Liam Peter Donovan have created a show that asks questions but never answers them, moving on to a new issue instead. Jackes and Jill would definitely benefit from a bit of streamlining and focus, but Bonne’s vulnerable nuanced performance makes it work.

Jackes and Jills is on now until July 16 as part of Toronto Fringe. Tickets and show times here.