Festival Reviews: Speaking Truth and Critique: Two One-Acts

Roguing It Up: Rogue Festival 2023 Preview

*), here's a sneak peek at some electrifying shows! this year's Rogue Festival unfolds from February 28th-March 8th in Fresno, CA's Tower District. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of entertainment, as we'll be unveiling a host of show reviews in the upcoming days!

Before the Rogue curtain rose, we published a series of Rogue Festival Performer Preview articles, diving into the creative minds behind the acts. And, of course, we delved into the heart of Rogue itself, shedding some light on its intriguing roots. You can find all our Rogue Festival coverage neatly tucked away in our dedicated Rogue Festival category, with further details, including some performer press releases, on our event page over at KRL News and Reviews.

Tickets for these captivating performances can be procured from the Rogue website.

Let's take a look at two shows that are guaranteed to ignite your senses!

Jaguar Bennett: What Makes You Tick?

Consider yourself forewarned, because Jaguar Bennett is Fresno's most audacious comedian! In his latest creation, "What Makes You Tick?," he tackles the uncomfortable truths between us, and himself. What sets this show apart is its unique blend of humor and introspection, leaving audiences in stitches while delivering a thought-provoking message.

According to his press release, Jaguar Bennett will explore why Americans tend to deny the existence of a physical world, question the morality of American Christianity, and expose the futility of self-improvement attempts. Although the subject matter might strike a nerve, Jaguar manages to ensure that this show remains entertaining, stimulating even the most cynical of minds.

Brace yourself for an attacking stand-up show filled with direct insults, hard-hitting sermons, and a challenge to be better. That is, if Jaguar (and his show persona, at least) can be trusted to embrace such goals. While the show's primary aim might seem to be making you squirm, it also aims to make you think and perhaps even inspire change in our troubled times.

If thin skin is your armor, you may want to steer clear of this electrifying performance. On the other hand, if you're ready to face some uncomfortable truths with a laugh, "What Makes You Tick?" is the show for you.

Don't miss Jaguar Bennett's dynamic duel with the audience on the following dates:

Friday, March 7th, 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 8th, 5:00 p.m.

Don't forget our extra shows:

Sunday, March 2nd, 6:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 6th, 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 8th, 6:30 p.m.

All shows will be held at Veni Vidi Vici, 1116 N. Fulton St., Fresno CA 93728. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketleap.events/tickets/roguefestival/what-makes-you-tick.

UR Here Presents: Speak Truth to Power – A Double Bill of One-Acts

Prepare to be shaken, stirred, and captivated as UR Here transforms Fresno's playground with their two gripping one-act productions, "Speak Truth to Power."

UR Here, a local theater company that champions diversity and uses art as activism, according to their Facebook page, is on a quest to expose the injustices that from beneath the surface of our society. Their powerful performances open a window into crucial discussions revolving around race, gender, class, and power dynamics.

The first, "I Dream Before I Take the Stand," is a chilling courtroom drama unfolding the tense interview between a woman who has been attacked and an attorney determined to pin the blame on her. The second, "They Float Up," takes place in the post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans and illustrates the raw, painful reality of racial prejudice and the struggle for survival.

These powerful performances are more than mere entertainment; they are calls to action, thought-provoking experiences meant to inspire awakening and spark difficult conversations.

If you've ever been a victim of sexual assault, please be aware that "I Dream Before I Take the Stand" may trigger intense emotions.

Experience the magic of "Speak Truth to Power – A Double Bill of One-Acts" at the following times:

March 2nd, 6:30 p.m.
March 6th, 7:00 p.m.
March 7th, 5:30 p.m.
March 8th, 8:00 p.m.

All shows will be held at The Lotus Room, 626 E. Olive Ave., Fresno (located behind Component Coffee). Tickets for all shows are available on the Rogue website.

Theater Buffs, Listen Up!

If you have a passion for theater, check out Mysteryrat's Maze Podcast, which features mysteries narrated by local comedians. You can find their podcasts on various platforms, such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, and podbean.

Embrace Fresno's rich theater culture and explore more live performances in our Arts & Entertainment section. Keep an eye on KRL's Local Theatre event page for upcoming shows too!

And as our Editor-in-Chief and a multifaceted contributor, Lorie Lewis Ham is on a mission to immerse herself in the mysteries of journalism and the intricacies of the literary world. Dive into her world of mystery writing at Mysteryrat's Closet, and discover her latest novel, "One of Us," set against the backdrop of the Tower District and the world of community theater!

The electrifying performance 'Jaguar Bennett: What Makes You Tick?' promises to ignite your senses with a blend of humor and introspection, delivering a thought-provoking message while keeping audiences in stitches, as found in the Rogue Festival category of KRL News and Reviews.
'UR Here Presents: Speak Truth to Power – A Double Bill of One-Acts' is an thought-provoking explosion of diversity and activism, using art to expose injustices in our society, and can be watched at various shows held at The Lotus Room, as detailed on the Rogue Festival's official website.