2024 Fringe Festival Review: Practically Perfect Pitch

If you were around the age of 11 in 2012, then you probably know the cult-classic Pitch Perfect. What you probably don’t know is that Practically Perfect Pitch is a hilarious parody musical of the beloved movie, and you can catch it right now at the Edmonton Fringe Festival!

Written and directed by Elizabeth Janzen, the show follows Bella as she joins a university a cappella group called the “Swiftheads” as they compete against their rivals, the “Third Bases.”

To be frank, if you have never seen the original Pitch Perfect, you probably shouldn’t see this show. Though it probably goes without saying, don’t watch the parody if you haven’t seen the original source material. On the other hand, if you are a Pitch Perfect lover, you should definitely see this show. The attention to detail is remarkable, emphasizing tiny details from the movie and playing them up as jokes. This show is definitely aimed at the people who, like me, grew up loving the movie. The nostalgia is palpable. 

The script does a great job of taking a movie that is very much of its time and adapting it to the present. The main a capella group, the “Swiftheads,” only sing Taylor Swift, which allows for many jokes at her expense. The writing is satirical and pokes fun at the singer, but it never feels mean-spirited. In addition to Swift songs, the entire a cappella repertoire has been updated for modern audiences. Some of the featured artists include Chappell Roan, Lorde, and many more. 

The entire cast performs the a cappella live, which is quite impressive. Not only do they demonstrate superior singing skills, but all of the performances were excellent comedically. The entire cast worked amazingly well as an ensemble. The “Third Bases” bring the same raucous and raunchy energy found in the source material. Their ability to convey stupid frat-esque boys was admirable. Nico Maiorana, who portrayed Willy, the sad dork who desperately wishes to join the “Third Bases,” stood out as a comedic talent. His portrayal of a sniveling sad sack was one of the highlights of the show.

On the “Swifthead” side of the show, Sarah Dolman shone. Her depiction of an uptight, anxious Kylie was underscored by great, although subtle, physical comedy. Overall, the entire cast’s comedic timing and ability to feed off of each other’s energy made the show seem more like a party or concert than a play. 

If you want to see a show jam-packed with fun, great singing, and hilarious performances, you should go see Practically Perfect Pitch.

Practically Perfect Pitch is playing at the Fringe Festival until August 24.