The “F” Word, produced by SaMel Tanz, is a dance show that celebrates being a woman in all of it’s glory — bras and all. Everything from Modern technique to Argentine Tango to Krump was explored, each number having it’s own unique approach to a different topic surrounding feminism.

Right off the bat, I gotta say that this show was just plain old “fun” and I mean that as a huge compliment. I tend to prefer dance for the sake of dance and The “F” Word did not mess around. It avoided getting too heady and story-driven which I appreciated, and gave the audience exactly what they came for…pure joy through movement.

Although the cast was strong overall, there were a select few who stood out including Lilly Giroux who brought the feistiness of a true feminist to the stage, and Melissa Hart who is one of the creators of the show (along with Samantha Schleese) and killed every style she stepped into like she was “born to be”.

The choreography was energetic, vibrant, and athletic. Though a bit simplistic, I could appreciate how Hart and Schleese’s unique style was woven throughout each number. The show ran like a dance recital which was good in some ways because it ended up being a really fun mix of all kinds of dance styles, costumes, and set pieces. On the other hand some of the transitions between the numbers could have been smoother, but I did enjoy the recital format in general.

One of my favorite numbers was the company’s own rendition of a Venus razor ad. It was playful, jazzy and simply hilarious as the “ladies” fight over who’s “got it” the most. Monologues and acting moments were also incorporated. Some really hit home, others were a bit of a downer against the high energy choreography that came before. All in all though, The “F” Word got their feminist messages across loud and clear.

If you want to see some real dancing, and I mean REAL dancing, check out The “F” Word at the Toronto Fringe Festival. It’s like the feminist dance recital of your dreams.

• The “F” Word plays at the Al Greene Theatre. (720 Spadina Ave.)
• Tickets are 12$. The festival also offers a range of money saving passes for serious fringers.
• Tickets can be purchased online, by telephone (416-966-1062), from the Fringe Club at Scadding Court –and — if any remain from the venue’s box office starting one hour before curtain.
• Be aware that Fringe performances always start exactly on time, and that latecomers are never admitted.
• Content Warnings: Parental guidance is advised,  mature language.
• This venue is accessible.

Performances:

• Thursday July 6th, 10:30 pm
• Saturday July 8th, 03:30 pm
• Sunday July 9th, 08:30 pm
• Monday July 10th, 05:00 pm
• Tuesday July 11th, 02:45 pm
• Thursday July 13th, 01:45 pm
• Saturday July 15th, 06:15 pm