Runner-up for BEST OF THE FEST at the
2023 Vancouver Fringe Festival, PEACHES: THE PLAY
is a thought-provoking + comedic social commentary that is already making waves after its world premiere on Thursday, September 7th, 2023

“It’s 2028 and years have passed since Maarika, a struggling actress, last found work. Her career took a downturn after she bravely came forward to expose her assailant, a fellow actor. Over the years, she stood firm in her commitment to addressing rape culture through her podcast, and now, that dedication places her in the running for the lead role in a new Broadway musical. PEACHES: THE PLAY! offers wry humour that will have you rooting for its protagonist while painfully acknowledging her impossible situation…

Maarika Freund's comedic timing carries most of the humour in the play. It's Freund's unfiltered performance and heartfelt reflections, inspired by her real-life ordeals, that deeply touch on the nuances of empathizing with aggressors, the alienation faced by those who come forward, and the hypocrisy within the entertainment industry. She shares these moments with her orange puppet companion, Peaches, who, though occasionally underutilized, adds a touching element to the one-person show. Peaches becomes a symbol of the isolation experienced by a woman coping with the aftermath of a traumatic event. The play’s comedic social critique culminates in a cathartic ending, offering room for healing and resilience.”

• Angie Rico @ The Stir

Read the press releases for the 2023 Vancouver Fringe Festival’s award ceremony:

Vancouver Fringe
The Georgia Straight
The Stir

& Read Maarika’s interview with VITA Daily here
& her interview with the Vancouver Fringe here

Due to its mature content, on Vimeo, you will be required to create an account and log-in before viewing. This will not require any fees or payments, but is to protect younger viewers who may not be emotionally ready to encounter tough subject matter. That being said, the play is still incredibly funny while simultaneously being, to quote The Stir Vancouver, “a cutting social commentary”. TW: sexual assault

If you want to know what you’re getting yourself into before watching the play, check out the video below! In this trailer to the show, you’ll learn about what inspired PEACHES, and why I believe it’s so important to work towards making discussions around this sticky subject matter more safe & accessible. PS: I’m still working towards my fundraising goal, so if you have the means to contribute, it would mean so much!