For theatre without dialogue, Compagnia Baccalà’s Pss Pss certainly creates a lot of buzz, on stage at The Cultch York Theatre.
photo: Geri Born
The award winning show stars Camilla Pessi and Simone Fassari, her and him, as they take the audience on an adventure in physical-comedy. The two performers formed Compagnia Baccalà combining careers in circus and cabaret, which both shine through in Pss Pss. Their mostly silent performance echos comedy greats like Buster Keaton, Charlie Chaplin and even Lucille Ball, their clown-like faces able to express so much with just a raised eyebrow, or curl of the lips. Where their facial expressions bring laughter, their physical acrobatics and gymnastics skills bring awe.
Like a circus show, Pss Pss is a series of set pieces combining all of their skills into a hilarious and breathtaking hour long performance. While their acrobatics are awe-inspiring the moments that are perhaps the most risky are incorporating the audience.
As with any audience interaction the performer hopes their instincts are sharp and they choose an able and game player. On opening night the audience members really got into the spirit of the show and the man they singled out to bring onstage perfectly fit the bill, incorporating into their balancing act with ease. Even though not part of the direct interaction, hearing the large number of children in the audience vocalize their wonder and amazement add an extra bit of joy to the experience.
Compagnia Baccalà’s Pss Pss is an hour of theatre that is sure to put a smile on your face, and a thrill in your heart.
The York Theatre plays host to Pss Pss until March 4, 2018. Visit thecultch.com for tickets and showtimes.
Starting the night on a lively note as special musical guest, Lesismore, performed their while we dined at Federico’s.
The Federico’s Supper Club tasting plate included 4 great bites; Arancino (a rich Arborio rice ball with saffron, Pecorino Romano and truffle oil), Bruschetta al Pesto di Piselli e Menta (grilled bread with a fresh topping of crushed peas with mint, olive oil and ricotta salata), Involtina di Prosciutoo e Burrata (Prusciutto wrapped Burrate with basil and fried capers) and a sweet Fico con Ricotta Fresca (honey roasted fig, with ricotta and balsamic reduction). A $5 wine pair for each plate was also offered.
Next we had a healthy, palate cleansing trio of Tasting Cups from Bonvita Health. Their juice and smoothie options were “The Root Down” (Orange, Beet, Carrot and Ginger juice), “Green Revival” (Cucumber, Kale, Celery, Cilantro, Dandelion, Apple and Turmeric juice) and “Bonvita Classic” (Banana, Cacao, Date and Almond Milk smoothie)
Over on Clark Drive, we found the Via Tevere Neapolitan Experss truck parked outside Strange Fellows Brewery. Hot Neapolitan Saltimbocca Sandwiches fresh from the truck’s stone oven; the options were Proscuitto and Arugula or a Caprese sandwich. Both were hot and melty contrasting with fresh greens and mayo.
Back up to The Drive, stepping into Fratelli Bakery was like a visit to Italy as the bakers piled a selection of their sweet Italian treats into a tasting box. Cream and Cheese filled Canollis, Nutella Macarons, Amaretti and, Espresso Cookies, Custard Filled Cream Puffs all gave us a taste of the old world.
The final stop at Prado Cafe helped wash everything down with a Italian Soda, or an alternate choice of Cold Brew Coffee or Iced Tea. The drink was served alongside a rich and moist slice of “Jackie’s Birthday Cake”.
Vancouver Foodster’s Summer Series of events continues next month with 
Put on in conjunction with the Tequila Expo, the afternoon started with a welcome cocktail, “Spiked Agua Fresca” – Watermelon Thai Basil con piquete (or without). Garnished with a bright cube of watermelon, it was a great summer splash on a sunny day.
As the food preparation and associated aromas filled the air, along came a palate warmer, “Spring in San Pancho” – Silver Tequila, housemade berry syrup, jamaica, berries and soda. Even a virgin version was a refreshing, fizzy pick-me-up.
Tamarindo Margarita