Reviews - Fringe 2014

Fringe Review: Borderline Me

By Mackenzie Kristjon Jenkyns
Published July 21, 2014

b contemporary is one of the coolest galleries on James Street North so it was almost no surprise to see what appeared to be a mannequin in a hockey mask standing with a stand-up bass at the back of the gallery on the opening night of Robin Zee's Borderline Me.

"I'm sure it's an installation," I thought. "Perhaps Freddy Krueger is coming later to play the violin. This could be one of those nights."

Enter Robin Zee and suddenly the room is awhirl and awash with the sounds of Orange McFarland's bass come to life and Robin's poetic monologue that walked boldly through the therapist's door and explored numerous mental illnesses and disorders in a refreshing and vibrant manner.

At some points, I almost felt like I was in a Lou Reed song. "Street Hassle" came to mind.

The movement and timing was impeccable and the minimalist costume changes were effective in providing visual touchstones for the story.

There was a clear feeling of personal warmth in the room right from the beginning as we walked through a personal journey through various kinds of abuse and ultimately through to therapy, childbirth, and beyond.

I was told beforehand that Iceland would make an appearance in this play, and I was not disappointed!

Sometimes when people consider where they are in life and where they want to be, they start to think about literally going somewhere else - and why not have Iceland in the mix? It seemed a fitting way to start thinking about a future of hope and inspiration

Mackenzie Kristjon is an Icelandic-Canadian singer-songwriter and all around creative force. He has published numerous books including the award-winning Culinary Saga of New Iceland. He also has roots in community radio at CFRU 93.3 FM in Guelph. To hear/see/download his music, you can visit thismaddesire.bandcamp.com.

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By 1RobinZee (registered) | Posted July 24, 2014 at 12:10:26

I am still absorbing this wonderful experience. The heart felt reactions from the audience, the emails and messages I've received. The amazing review and all of this is creating such beautiful memories. I am so grateful and humbled by the gifts of this experience I've received. I want to say thank you for this beautiful review and to all who have patten on this journey with me. Sincerely, Robin Zee

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