Based on a true story, Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life, presented by Western Gold Theatre runs June 11-14 at the PAL Studio Theatre, doubling as a fundraiser for Western Gold Theatre and the West End Seniors’ Network.
Created by Keith Alessi and directed by Erika Conway, Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life tells the true story of how a life-threatening cancer diagnosis led Keith, a well-known CEO, to leave the corporate world and embrace his long-deferred passion for the banjo. He ultimately found physical and emotional healing in a circle of musicians, and this shows tells that story.
On his unexpected journey to the stage, Keith has taken the award-winning show around the world; from Off-Broadway to Edinburgh Fringe, to Windsor and Edmonton Fringe Festivals and right here at Vancouver Fringe in 2018. Returning for this fundraising run, his story of perseverance and survival continues to resonate and inspire audiences. Peppered with humour, Keith’s moving journey celebrates resilience, music, the importance of giving back, the power of following your dreams – and never giving up.
Alessi says, “When this show made its Vancouver debut in 2018, we had no idea about the journey that was about to unfold. Vancouver audiences always inspire us to keep going, and we love bringing the show back here whenever we can. It’s amazing to return again—now eight years, six countries, and 430 shows later from that initial debut—having raised over $1.3 million (CAD) for charity in the process.”
“For some intangible and ethereal reason, I can’t quite pinpoint, art changes lives and makes us feel better. It helps us see the world in different ways. It makes us generous. So when a person discovers the artist in themselves after going through something life-changing – and they use this artistry for good – it is beyond inspiring.” says Western Gold Theatre’s Artistic Director, Tanja Dixon-Warren “Keith’s journey with his dear friend the banjo brought this home to me – the power of music, performance, laughter and giving back. I knew immediately that Western Gold audiences would love this beautiful show. The fact that Keith is sharing it with us as a gift to our wee company and our community is nothing short of amazing and I am so grateful. The “bonus” is, I gotta say, that Keith and his show are totally kick ass – and he plays a mean banjo, too!”
Western Gold Theatre presents Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life, from June 11-14, 2026 at the PAL Studio Theatre, 8th Floor, 581 Cardero Street. Visit westerngoldtheatre.org for show details and tickets. Proceeds from this run will benefit WGT’s Creative Accessibilities program which keeps older artists ‘on the boards’ through the creation and production of new theatrical productions.