REVIEW: The Fabulist, Freed-Hardeman University, EdFringe 2026 ★★★★

Once upon a sometimes, The Fabulist leads an audience into false stories, lies, stories where the ends aren’t what they’re meant to be. But backstage, Millie, the girl with the mop discovers the truth and attempts to uncover them for the whole crowd, they are both transported into a world not like their own. A place where neither cynicism nor falsehood can silence a story that is true. But instead, face their pasts in front of their very eyes.

This production led by Freed-Hardiman University as part of the International Collegiate Festival showcases this group of next generation fabulists and the true meaning of storytelling in a youthful and wholesome fairytale of its own.

All of these performers are making their fringe debuts and their collective drive, production design and ensemble work is incredible.

Levi Secula’s Limkin Block – our own Fabulist – is the perfect mix of PT Barnum with the voice and charisma of Buster Moon. Not a combination I expected but one that really works! Jenna Salvato’s Millie brings in youthfulness but yet wise-beyond-her-years, a girl that wants nothing but the truth when her past returns in a time when she least expects it. A child of war and the consequences of them all.

The wider ensemble were stellar with Natalie Barker’s ever knowing Lore and her story creatures of Drew Bramblett and Madison Parker, Parker’s Nanna accent and Bramblett’s Brother brings tears to our eyes in their penultimate moments.

I knew almost nothing going into this but this was the last thing I expected and the International Collegiate Festival is a hidden gem where more and more stories unfold.

You can catch The Fabulist at Nicholson Square Venues until 11 Aug at 19:00 (60 mins). Tickets are available through the EdFringe Online Box Office.