Next Thing You Know by Joshua Salzman and Ryan Cunningham
August 12 – 14, 18 – 20 at the Telus Phone Museum
More information: facebook.com/EtherealFantazyProd

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An interview with Johanna Reinberg. 

Describe your show in five words. 

Fun, Alcoholic, Harmonious, Relatable Musical.

Okay, now that we’re intrigued… what’s the longer description?

Next Thing You Know tells the story of four struggling artists in their twenties as they drink and laugh their way through the big questions, such as “Should we take a 9 to 5 job?” or “Is it time to get married?”. Twenty-eight year old Waverly seems to have it all, a charming boyfriend, Darren, a loyal best friend, Lisa, and flexible jobs that allow her the freedom to pursue her acting dream. However, when she is offered a full time position as a law clerk she finds herself wondering if she should “give up” on her acting dreams or accept that maybe the life she never thought she’d want is better than it seems.

How did you come across the script for Next Thing You Know and why did you want to bring Next Thing You Know to fringe festivals this summer? 

I came across Next Thing You Know as a member of newmusicaltheatre.com. As a musical theatre junkie I am always looking for new and modern new musicals and once I heard the soundtrack for the show I was intrigued for it spoke to me at that moment in time in my life. I decided to produce the show for fringe festivals this summer because I believe the show holds a very important message for inspiring artists yet I also feel it has a very relatable storyline that can be appreciated across all ages. Furthermore the Fringe festival is a very affordable way for all to experience this show.

For those that haven’t seen Next Thing You Know before, can you talk about the show’s music?

The score for Next Thing You Know is very unique, powerful and charming. It holds very amusing and hilarious songs yet it balances itself out with very touching and heartfelt songs and lyrics. Every song tells a story and resonates to the audience.

What is it about the show that resonates with you and connects to audiences?

Aside from a great soundtrack, the show resonates with me for it holds very relatable storyline that all audiences can connect with. It speaks to anyone who has ever found themselves in the crossroad of life, especially those in their twenties, that start to question when is it time to grow up and what does it really mean to grow up. Is it getting a full time job, getting married, living your dreams?. What does it mean?! Moreover, the characters are diverse , funny and friendly which makes it very easy for the audience to root for them along the show.

Anything else you want audiences to know about the show?

It is funny, heartfelt and you should definitely go see it! The cast has been traveling across Fringe Festivals this summer sharing this wonderful production and we are very excited to be sharing it with the Edmonton Fringe Festival audiences for it will be our first time in this legendary festival.  For more information about Next Thing You Know or Ethereal Fantazy Productions, you can find us and like our page on Facebook or Twitter.

The 35th Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival is August 11 – 21. Get your tickets at tickets.fringetheatre.ca.