The Zebra Shirt of Lonely Children

In his debut as a playwright and solo performer, Matthew Trumbull invites the audience into his living room as he tells the incredible tale of a son coping with his father’s untimely death, and the absurdity that ensues from his ever-practical dad's decision to donate his cadaver to science. Trumbull's story hinges on small, moving details, such as his difficulty sitting down to write a eulogy on his computer. Delivering the monologue in a three-piece suit, he peppers a generally matter-of-fact tone with colorful impressions of different characters in the story (some with heavy Minnesota accents). Within the span of an hour, he provokes hearty laughs from the audience as well as moments of rapt attention (and a few quiet tears). He achieves a masterful balance between the tragedy of loss and the touching moments of humor it can create. (Visit the FringeNYC Encore Series website for more information.)—Vanessa Thill