‘Wanzie With a Z,’ ‘Buggin’ Out’ are back for Fringe Theatre Festival
As Central Florida gears up for the 2019 Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival in May, two of the fest’s theatrical offerings return this week. Local playwright Michael Wanzie’s autobiographical “Wanzie With a Z” is back as a onenight-only film screening, and the familyfriendly “Buggin’ Out” is onstage at Breakthrough Theatre of Winter Park.
“Wanzie With a Z” is the emotional telling of the ups and downs of Wanzie’s young life, with an emphasis on his sexuality and relationship with his first serious boyfriend. The heartfelt story is acted by Josh Lefkowitz, Joshua S. Roth and Wanzie himself, all playing the title character at different ages.
The three won the Critics’ Choice award for best ensemble performance after the 2017 festival, where the humorlaced drama was recorded. The show was directed by Kenny Howard.
“Wanzie With a Z” will be screened at 7:30 p.m. April 25, in Parliament House’s Footlight Theatre, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando. Tickets are $8-$12 at wanziemovie.eventbrite.com.
“Buggin’ Out: A Small Musical,” which premiered at the 2018 Fringe Festival, tells of a small community of bugs who band together when they are threatened by a storm. The gentle musical by Grace Trotta and Ryan Goodwin focuses on Mitch, an insecure butterfly new to the group.
“There are fun details in the lighthearted script for adults to appreciate — William Wasp is a slimy timeshare salesman and perky Tina Termite wants to start a book club,” I wrote in my review of the Fringe production. Of course, things can go a little too far: A subplot about a love affair gone wrong will fly over the heads of children.
But kids will pick up on the themes of making new friends, finding self-confidence and standing up to greed and selfishness.
Breakthrough’s production features updated material and two new casts – one comprised of adults, one of children. Angela Cotto is directing.
The show runs through May 6 at the theater, 419A W. Fairbanks Ave. in Winter Park. The adults perform April 27-28, May 4 and 6. Catch the students April 26 and 29, May 3 and 5. Tickets are $12-$20. Call 407-920-4034.