Past Reviews

Regional Reviews: Philadelphia

Late Night Snacks
2022 Philadelphia Fringe Festival
Review by Rebecca Rendell


John Jarboe
Photo by Johanna Austin
The Bearded Ladies Cabaret returns to the 2022 Philadelphia Fringe Festival and Opera Philadelphia's Festival 022 with a series of outrageous and innovative performances dubbed Late Night Snacks. A sumptuous feast for all the senses, this month-long series of performances features top notch vocalists, some of the best drag performers in Philadelphia, and a venue that blurs the line between underground night club and modern art exhibition. Entertainment is the main draw here, but a contagiously upbeat atmosphere and deliciously potent drinks make "The Switch" a spot worth visiting in its own right.

I was lucky enough to attend a special preview performance where co-directors John Jarboe and Jackie Soro were serving up some of the best cabaret this side of Paris. John Jarboe was rousing as the evening's host and opening act. Just moments after the Midnight Munchies (Late Night Snacks' funky stage band) struck up the tunes, Jarboe had the entire audience laughing out loud and singing along. Only Jarboe's sparkling charisma and phenomenal vocal skills could turn the Electric Slide into a legitimate showstopper. Philadelphia favorite Eric Jaffe kept the audience smiling with two top-notch numbers, but the adorably effervescent Sam Rise stole the show with their authentic humor and an impressive original song.

For over about a month, a selection of special guests join hosts Jess Conda, Cookie Diorio, Eric Jaffe, John Jarboe, Anthony Martinez-Briggs (aka "US"), Sam Rise, and Adrienne Truscott. If you're looking for a good time in Philadelphia this fall I highly recommend attending several performances so you can get your fill of these tasty treats.

Late Night Snacks runs through October 2, 2022, at The Switch, 421 N. 7th Street, Philadelphia PA. Tickets are pay what you wish at the door; no one will be turned away. Additionally, tiered pricing will be available. For advance registration, visit fringearts.com .

Project Collaborators:
Co-director: John Jarboe
Co-director: Jackie Soro
Producer: Cat Ramirez
Associate Producer: Mel Hsu
Dramaturg: Rachel O'Hanlon-Rodriguez
Stage Manager: Jamel Baker
Music Director and Keys: Heath Allen
Drums: Jimmy Coleman
Bass: Josh Machiz
Installation Designer: Scott McMaster
Lighting Designer: Hamilton Guillén
Sound Designer: Elizabeth Atkinson

Curation Team:
Emily Bate
Noelle Diane Johnson
Anthony Martinez-Briggs
Sally Ollove
Jackie Soro