FALLOUT FRINGE FESTIVAL 2026-Day 5

By Erik Engman

Author, Clown and Improvisation Teacher, Theatre Critic EatMoreArtVegas.com

IG: ErikReviewsVegas

It’s day 5 of the Fallout Fringe Festival, and it is moving into another phase of the festival. Some plays are finished, and new ones are emerging. Tonight I only have one new play to review. You can access the full schedule at www.falloutfringe.org/schedule.

Heavy Petting Zoo by Venus Cobb   

Satisfying ★★★

Two short plays in one, both involving animals and strained relationships. The first play concerns a young couple facing marital issues, and in the mix is a secret visitor straight from the zoo. (I’m keeping it vague so you can enjoy the surprise.) Add in the neighbors, and the mayhem escalates in classic farce fashion. I thought this play was a hoot, no bird pun intended. Not sure I understand the inclusion of a secondary voice for the animal, but I liked it and think it worked. The second play revolves around a couple’s tumultuous relationship, and a drug trip that makes the guy confront his behavior, sexuality, and hunger for dog meat. I didn’t care as much about this one, because as much as I appreciated the guy going on his trip and confronting his beliefs, for me, it got lost somewhat in the drug–induced chaos. I also felt it lacked a satisfying ending. That said, both plays were extremely fun and enjoyable. The actors are excellent and are having a blast on stage. Writer/Director Venus Cobb is a solid writer, and I look forward to seeing more from her in the future. I recommend seeing this pair of plays. You will have a howl of a good time.

@ THIRD Street: June 12, 13, 15, and 16