New Beginnings is the latest offering by Blue Joy Theatre. After seeing this fantastic performance, it’s clear they’re the ones to watch! New Beginnings does exactly what it says on the tin — embraces the joys of the imperfect and in-progress. If you want to know what the future of theatre and performance making looks like, this show is the place to start. 

The feeling amongst the audience during New Beginnings was the best I’ve experienced this FRINGE WORLD season. While they all bring something different to the stage, the energy of each performer is equally infectious. You can feel the passion and love poured into this show, the connections made between cast members and the earnest enthusiasm for storytelling. 

I particularly enjoyed the elements of dance explored in this show. From uncontrolled, silly movement amongst friends, to emotionally considered interpretive dance, to embodied cultural dance practices — New Beginnings allows performers to express emotions without words. The cast follows the thread of their curiosity, unafraid of missteps or silences, and the outcome is something totally fresh and surprising. 

In the final act of the show, multi-disciplinary artist Ayo Busari asks, "What does freedom look like?" An apt thesis for this incredible performance that takes you in many directions, without the urgency for a definite answer.