ZAMBONI (FringeNYC) NYC Reviews and Tickets
About the Show
A FringeNYC Encore: Jamie has resurfaced the ice rink for decades, unnoticed by the world around him. On the brink of his mom's death, he begins a high-stakes journey of self-discovery through morally risky encounters.
Read more Show lessMember Reviews (48)
See it if you are interested in the subtle handling of difficult subject matter.
Don't see it if the banality of evil disturbs you.
See it if You want a dark, dark, comedy about a very uncomfortable subject. You want to see a play in the early stage of developmnet.
Don't see it if You want to see a play that's more developed. You don't want to see a play about taboo topics.
See it if You want to see an exceptional, nuanced performance by Joseph Franchini in a difficult role that evokes both sympathy & revulsion.
Don't see it if You don't want to confront an uncomfortable subject matter and a somewhat disappointing denouement.
See it if seeking provocative, original debut work with actors who sell the story through talent, rather than excessive props; you enjoy risk-takers.
Don't see it if easily offended by tones of pedophilia, dislike minimal staging, looking for a rollicking musical, or don't want to leave feeling depressed.
See it if You're a fan of zambonis & are up for a solid cast & smooth direction in a quirky, very funny but ultimately dark comedy of self-discovery.
Don't see it if You're too easily disturbed by the sometimes darker nature of the human soul & where it might lead — even if you're laughing all the way. Read more
See it if You can watch a play that becomes very edgy. Can deal with relevant current situations that might make you a little uncomfortable
Don't see it if You're not comfortable with relevant current situations brought to life on the stage that might be uncomfortable for some
See it if you're interested in watching an everyman's fall from grace and struggle with identity.
Don't see it if you want something clear, fast-paced, and streamlined.
See it if You appreciate excellent acting, thought provoking scripts and do not shirk from difficult subject matter.
Don't see it if You are squeamish about sexual pathologies. Otherwise you should definitely go.
Critic Reviews (3)
“Although the plot's predictability may cut some of the tension, the script and acting are exciting enough to hold attention...Overall, ‘Zamboni’ is a thoughtful and prodding piece of theatre about a specific world, exploring the taboos and examining the unique moments within. I found myself captivated throughout, and excited to see the progressions and dynamics. The cast brings true presence and talent in a way that I’ve yet to see in this year's Fringe, and the piece is truly memorable.”
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"A remarkably honest and vulnerable performance. Mr. Franchini fills his character with uncertainty, frailty, instability, and addiction...It is a performance that is not easy to watch but should not be missed. There is a supporting cast that is brilliant…Deftly directed by Leslie Kincaid Burby each character embraces subtle nuance while remaining emotionally powerful. Mr. O’Brien is a fresh, new, young voice that hopefully will continue to be heard in a new generation of American playwrights."
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"Sometimes all it takes is a strong story and basic storytelling to make the perfect Fringe play. Those were the main ingredients of O’Brien's nearly flawless 'Zamboni'…It's a heartbreaking story. It's heavy but not daunting…'Zamboni' featured exceptional direction by Leslie Kincaid Burby…The play moved effortlessly with transitions from scene to scene blending into one another…'Zamboni' featured an incredible ensemble...Franchini gave a heartbreaking performance."
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Trailer
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