A decade ago Captain Ambivalent took his accordion to television. A century ago Uncle Barney took his banjo to vaudeville. Tonight a dozen over-the-top novelty acts* audition to tell those stories with song, dance, and comedy, as each of them collide with reality – big time!
(*this is a one-man show)
2026 Elgin Fringe Festival Percolator Award
The Percolator Award was introduced by the Fringe Committee in honor of a standout 2023 performance by Julie Leir-VanSickle. Named after her inventive piece that turned the sounds of a coffee percolator into art, the award pays tribute to creativity that bubbles over, blending dance, theater, audience interaction, and the delightfully unexpected in the lively setting of a bar.
This award celebrates artists who push the boundaries of traditional theater and bring fresh ideas to life. It honors those who think beyond the ordinary, challenge artistic conventions, and create immersive performances that surprise and engage their audiences. The Percolator Award shines a light on the fringiest of Fringe artists, recognizing their originality, curiosity, and boldness that keep the festival brewing with new possibilities.
Audience Reviews
“absolutely loved this! entertaining, impressive, hilarious, educational and hopeful all at the same time!”
“When the captain is in town, you always know you’re in for a good time. However, this was his best show yet. It’s funny and warm and heartfelt and deeply creative. I laughed like a lunatic and cried like a baby. Cannot recommend enough.”
“Loved this show! I was expecting it to be funny, and it was…but it was also so much more than that. Dan played so many characters at once and gave us a wild ride through time.”
“This show manages to be both hilarious and a grounded, honest look at the world. It was musically fantastic, and the shifts to seriousness landed so well.”
“Not your father’s Captain Ambivalent! A whole new show with many surprises, plus a few old favorites! Even some moments of solemnity amidst the mayhem! Presented in an impressive mixed media format! Highly recommended!”