Wiener Beacon

Show Description

Wiener Beacon, written by Alexa Laibarté, was presented at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival following its original production at York University’s playGround Festival. Inspired by the iconic Schneiders and Jesus Saves signs along Ontario’s Highway 401, the play follows Catherine after her car spins out during a snowstorm and she finds herself in the strange world of Schneider and Jesus Saves. As she becomes caught in the middle of their troubled relationship, the production explores themes of love, selfishness, greed, power, and what happens when a giver finally takes.

Presented At:
York University, Toronto ON

‍ Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Edinburgh UK

CREDITS

Playwright: Alexa Laiberté

Director: Alexa Laiberté

Assistant Director: Sumaya Bahur

Stage Manager: Zach Giardine

Assistant Stage Manager: Anaiya Wellington

Lighting Design: Zach Giardine

Sound Design: Charlie Vanstone

Costume Design: Calla Soles

Props Design: Calla Soles

Set Design: Calla Soles

Production Assistant: Sophie Cheung

Photo Credit: Ashley Loyst

“A car flips on Highway 401 in a snowstorm, the crash rendered through Sheer Hysterics’ inventive physical theatre. Technical design conveys [Schneider’s] flickering, dying generator. It’s a memorable, zany hour, and there’s a tender, human story buried in the billboards, about the pressure on women to keep excelling while their male counterparts coast.”

3 STARS: The Scotsman (Professional Critic)
"This is a super fun show, billboards come to life w/ marital problems on a Canadian highway, great ensemble work and movement by the cast, a fun engaging storyline that moves. It has good pace with plenty of laughs. Go check it out!!"

Chris Davies (Audience Member)
"Fun and cozy dramatic comedy, with big Canadian energy! "

Adrian Chnaiderman (Audience Member)
"Any time I have a spare moment while this show is on, I go see it. The script is absolutely hilarious and the performers bring so much extra flare to it, cracking me up the entire time. The snowflake chorus is genius and a perfect example of how every wacky idea in this show just works. Do not miss out on Wiener Beacon! "

Molly McNulty (Audience Member)
“A truly Canadian piece through and through, this play is a testament to how important it can be to start from where you know. It blossoms into a real and comedic look at how longer marriages can affect both men and women. Thanks to the amazing performances and a chorus of snowflakes holding the story together, it was such an enjoyable show with a crazy concept that delivers and expands upon itself in fascinating and wonderful ways!”

Spencer Simpson (Audience Member)
"This quirky and funny show was very well acted and created. I love the use of a chorus surrounding two strong, hilarious character-billboards. A one-of-a-kind show that will steal your heart!!"

Lisa Randall (Audience Member)
"I had such a fun time watching Wiener Beacon. It was funny, quirky, and felt so uniquely Canadian, which made it even more enjoyable. The writing was clever, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt, making the whole show such a memorable experience. Great song to match the production. The lighting really helped set the tone of the show and complemented the comedy and storytelling."

Julie Harrington (Audience Member)