Thunder Bay audiences have a new show to talk about, and it’s not one they’ll forget anytime soon.
MooseF**ker Ontario, from New Noise Productions, opened to a sold-out house and kept the crowd laughing, gasping and sometimes squirming in their seats from start to finish.
The story follows deadbeat dad, James, as he tries to get back into the life of his son 2ble-Weed (Tumbleweed), a young rapper with huge dreams but no money to make them happen. 2ble-Weed is determined to kick-start his career, but his plan to get the cash involves breaking a few laws and pulling his girlfriend Tiffany into the mess. What follows is a mix of crazy schemes, colourful characters, and plenty of unexpected moments.
The script, written by Andrew Paulsen, was developed right here in Northern Ontario. It feels rooted in the region. The characters, the slang, even the way people talk and act are instantly familiar to locals.
As Paulsen says, “It’s outrageous. It’s crazy. It’s raunchy. It’s unlike anything else. And it’s got a heart, and it also has a lot to say about Northern Ontario.”
With a cast of 12, the stage is always full of life. While the entire group brings energy, a few performances deserve special mention.
Ben Albert is pitch-perfect as 2ble-Weed. From the moment he steps on stage, he brings the right mix of over-the-top energy and sharp comedic timing. He knows exactly when to go big for a laugh and when to pull back to let the audience connect with the character.
Shaundra Benincasa delivers a bold, committed performance as Tiffany. She holds her own and also gives the role some emotional weight, especially during a tense confrontation scene that had the audience completely hooked.
In the supporting cast, Cady Dreger, Janis Swanson, and Rob Paulerine all leave their mark. Paulerine’s solo monologue is one of the night’s highlights, earning huge laughs and applause.
And then there’s the moose. Yes, there really is a moose, and no, it’s not just a throwaway gag. The puppet is beautifully made, and the puppeteers give it a personality that fits right in with the human cast. It’s the kind of detail that makes the production feel special.
The set design is inventive, using the small stage in smart ways to bring the story’s locations to life. While a few edges are rough, it doesn’t take away from the overall effect. The special effects are used sparingly but effectively, adding to the comedy and surprise.
It’s important to note this is a very adult show.
There’s strong language (including slurs and at least 75 f-bombs), nudity, violence, graphic sexual content, and more than a few jaw-dropping moments. Several people left at intermission on opening night.
If that doesn’t scare you off, it’s a night full of laughs, shocks, and true Northern Ontario personality.
It’s wild, unapologetic, and completely original — a night at the theatre that’s as rowdy as it is entertaining.
9/10
MooseF**ker continues at the Cambrian Players Theatre Friday and Saturday, and then again from August 14 to 16. Tickets are $20, with a pay-what-you-can performance on August 14. Details and ticket sales are available through Eventbrite.
