(Orlando, FL) Orlando Fringe is back with a wide variety of ticketed performances, a free outdoor stage, an eclectic visual art gallery, and kids’ activities. While there’s simply too much Fringe to cover in a single article, we are doing a series of posts about this incredible Orlando event. In this ninth installment for the 2024 season, we are launching into orbit with Muttnik – a solo show written and performed by the fan-favorite Bruce Ryan Costella!
We were so excited to attend a recent performance of this touching and compelling show. Thank you, Bruce Ryan Costella and Orlando Fringe, for inviting us out!
What is Orlando Fringe?
Muttnik is playing at Orlando Fringe, a two-week theater festival focused on unjuried and uncensored works of performance art. While similar festivals exist all over the world, Orlando Fringe is the longest running event of its kind within the United States. Fringe Festivals are generally known for featuring alternative or experimental pieces of art, so you really never know what you’re going to find!
Learn more about Orlando Fringe, and see this year’s digital program at orlandofringe.org.
About Bruce Ryan Costella
An award-winning performer and the creator of Fringe favorite productions like Spooky and Gay and Rat Man Happy Place, Bruce Ryan Costella is known for his solo plays and innovative performance art. Follow him on Instagram for more about his exceptional shows, national tours, and upcoming projects.
Muttnik
Venue: CityArts
It is important to note that Muttnik is NOT located on the Fringe main campus. Instead this show takes place at CityArts, an eclectic art gallery and performance space in Downtown Orlando. Featuring rotating art exhibitions and events, you can find out more about CityArts at downtownartsdistrict.com.
3…2…1…Takeoff!
Decades ago, Russia made history by sending the very first living creature into space: a stray dog. While we can all appreciate the historical nature of this event, do we ever really think about what this venture was like for the dog? What circumstances led to their consequential flight? And how did an animal interpret the strange sights, sounds, and smells surrounding their experience?
Inspired by this true life endeavor, Bruce Ryan Costella’s Muttnik introduces audiences to the famed animal. In the span of one hour, we will hear stories from the dog’s past, feelings about their uncertain future, and real time reactions to in-orbit events. Both heart -warming and -wrenching, Costella is somehow able to realistically capture key canine mannerisms and character traits, creating a believable conversation with a domesticated creature.
Muttnik, according to the Orlando Fringe website:
WINNER: Best of Fest (KC Fringe 2019), Best Solo Show – Drama (Orlando Fringe 2018) In 1957, Soviet scientists sent the first living thing to outer space: a stray dog. Now hear its story. MUTTNIK is an interstellar dramedy inspired by true events. An oft old-out Orlando Fringe favorite, written & performed by Bruce Ryan Costella (RAT MAN HAPPY PLACE, Spooky & Gay).
“best in show” Watermark Magazine
“good dog” Orlando Sentinel
“one need not be a dog lover to be profoundly moved” KC Fringe Review Team
NOMINEE – Script of the Decade, BroadwayWorld Orlando
Freaky Thoughts: Muttnik
Filled with warm anecdotes and the sobering realities of scientific research, I was incredibly touched by Muttnik and its compelling story. Bruce’s performance painfully illustrates the stark contrast between a dog’s unflinching loyalty and eagerness to please with the self-centered perspective of the human race. This comparison broke my heart in a very real way. In fact, I still cannot see anything about a rocket launch or space shuttle without thinking about this show.
Impactful, comedic, and endearing; Muttnik is a captivating story expertly written and performed by Bruce Ryan Costella. Filled with fun moments, charming stories, and unfortunate realizations; this show is unforgettable and should not be missed. If you’re an animal person (or even if you’re not), I highly recommend checking it out!
Getting Tickets to Muttnik
Muttnik will play on select dates now through May 26. To buy your tickets, visit the Orlando Fringe virtual box office.
Because 100% of the base ticket price is given directly to the respective artists, you will also need to purchase a reusable 2024 Fringe Festival button. Buttons are $10 and grant access to all the performances at this year’s event (along with an individually purchased show ticket). No matter how many productions you plan to see, you only need one button per person, per year.
Know Before You Go
- A 2024 Fringe Festival button (and show ticket) is required to visit any performance. You can purchase your button online.
- Muttnik takes place at Downton Orlando’s City Arts Gallery (39 S Magnolia Ave Orlando). Please do NOT go to the Fringe main campus for this show.
- Parking in Downtown Orlando can be tricky. Make sure you arrive early to allow plenty of time to locate a suitable spot and travel to the show location.
