Toronto Fringe Review: Don Valley Girls: A Sketch Comedy Revue
After selling out their run at Why Not Theatre’s RISER Toronto this past April, the Don Valley Girls are back with their hit sketch comedy revue that doesn’t pull any punches.
From making an ass out of the cis-het white male patriarchy to the beautiful absurdity of Korean dramas, this show not only brings the comedy, but tackling grander social issues that reflect the times we’re in.
They inject a lot of parody songs of the show, whether it’s through a mashup of the “Spiced Girls” greatest hits or a beautifully choreographed silent scene set to variations of WAP by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion. These little musical moments help keep the show together and provide a nice variety.
The cast all bring a ton of energy and an infectious joy to the show that has them all shining at one point or another.
Rabiya Mansoor gives a mix of both high energy characters and heartfelt moments; Mona Hersi’s annoyance with the recent popularity of bidets provides a delightful monologue; Andie Hong takes every moment on stage to get a laugh, whether she’s playing the lead or a side character; Surer Qaly Deria thankfully brings in the literary references to which I feel every show desperately needs; and Fateema Al-Hamaydeh Miller really bares it all and lets it all hang out (you’ll know it when you see it).
Filled with poignant sketches that bring a balance of fun and heart, Don Valley Girls: A Sketch Comedy Revue is a show that matches the current moment and makes no apologies for it. It’s such a joy to watch this group take command of the stage to become the Main Characters™ that they are.
Don Valley Girls: A Sketch Comedy Revue is on now until July 17 as part of the 2022 Toronto Fringe Festival.
Find show times and tickets here.
This is a review of what might have been!