Must See

Jennifer Vosters has composed a masterpiece with this deeply involving one-woman show about the profound bond between two extraordinarily gifted musicians, 19th-century German composer Felix Mendelssohn and his older sister, Fanny, whose genius struggled against the constraints of sexist conventions. Vosters is consistently compelling as she portrays both siblings in what is at once a meticulously well-researched history play and an exquisitely eloquent evocation of the artistic process and the ties that can bind siblings, for better or worse. As an admirer of the art of solo performance, I find that “Songs Without Words (or, The Mendelssohn Play)” might be the most powerful example I’ve experienced in decades of Fringing.

Presented by Jennifer Vosters at Rarig Nolte Xperimental Theatre; 4 p.m. Aug. 2, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 5, 8:30 p.m. Aug. 7, 7 p.m. Aug. 10

Still trying to decide what to see? Check out all the 2025 Fringe reviews at twincities.com/tag/fringe-festival, with each show rated on a scale of Must See, Worth Considering, Could Be Worse or You Can Skip It.

The Minnesota Fringe Festival is presenting nearly 100 hourlong stage acts from July 31 through Aug. 10 around Minneapolis. Visit MinnesotaFringe.org for ticket and show information.

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