May 23 & 24: Poetry Cabaret + The Orange Monster is Back!

About the Show

Poetry Cabaret Collective is a troupe of poets, dancers, and musicians creating wild and intelligent shows that challenge norms and enlighten minds. Poetry Cabaret began in 2012, organized by poets Caleb Beissert and James McKay. Since then, iterations of the Poetry Cabaret have enthralled audiences at such venues as Capital Fringe, Asheville Fringe Arts Festival, The Magnetic Theatre, and Staufferstadt Arts.

Content Awareness

Adult Language & Adult Themes

About the Show

Six years ago, Frijolito, an undocumented immigrant, fought racism. After becoming a U.S. citizen, he forgot his roots—until his wife was deported. Now, he resists new demons shaping a world of two genders and one skin color. Experience horror, dark humor, violence, and even sex—all through bold, irreverent glove puppets!

Told through the raw and raucous style of glove puppetry, influenced by Commedia dell’Arte and the Neapolitan Guarattelle tradition, this show blends political satire with slapstick and social commentary. This performance is intended for adults only due to mature themes.

Content Awareness

Adult Language & Adult Themes

About the Artist

Edwin Salas is a passionate artist, adept at puppetry, theater, and dance, utilizing these mediums to delve into dark and complex themes, from personal to political. With an impressive global presence, he has performed in numerous countries across Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Edwin's artistic journey includes notable co-productions and directing works, such as "Los valles de Urikubo" and "Seven Deadly Sins in the Border." In addition to his stage accomplishments, he authored the book "Direct Action Puppet Mechanisms" in 2015. Notably, his deeply personal performance, "Dracula killed my Mom," received critical acclaim and prestigious awards. Edwin's influence as a teacher extends to workshops on "Political Theater with Puppets." In July 2023, taught the course of "Political Art with Puppets" at Maryland University, adding to his legacy as an impactful artist and educator in the world of puppetry.

About the Partnership

This performance is part of an ongoing collaboration between Asheville Fringe Society and Asheville Community Theatre. Each month, Asheville Fringe takes over 35below to present innovative, genre-defying work from local, regional, and national artists. The partnership transforms 35below into a home for adventurous performances and new artistic voices.

About ACT Late Night

ACT Late Night isn’t a time of day, it’s a state of mind! Expect edgy, contemporary, and immersive work presented outside of the traditional format. With performances in 35below, on the ACT Mainstage, and found spaces throughout the community, ACT Late Night showcases bold voices and adventurous stories.