Tomatoes
tried to Kill me
But Banjos Saved My Life

An Award Winning, Inspirational True Story
Keith Alessi playing a banjo

Accolades

Awards

Sold Out Run
Edinburgh Fringe
Pick of the Fringe
Mervyn Stutter's Pick
Edinburgh
Winner
Fringe Encore Series
New York City

Reviews & Press

British Theatre Review - Edinburgh Fringe
British Theatre Review - Edinburgh Fringe
August 16, 2023

Paul T Davies reviews Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life at Space @ Surgeon’s Hall as part of the Edinburgh Fringe.

Three Weeks Edinburgh Review
Three Weeks Edinburgh Review
August 8, 2023

I missed this show in 2022 and was keen to catch it early this year. Now an established international success, it’s a fine piece of American storytelling....

The Munro Review - Rogue Festival 2022
The Munro Review - Rogue Festival 2022
March 11, 2022

A banjo, the lean and kindly man tells us, draws a line to the past – back to circles of players whiling away pre-electric evenings in the Blue Ridge Mountains, back to the vestigial sound of bagpipes urging Scotsmen across a battlefield, back even to primeval times, with people sitting around campfires and vocalizing with grunts and hums.

Audience Feedback

A tale about choices and how to respond to life changing events. Understated but profound advice on how to live a more meaningful life. Uplifting, funny and profound.

Take me seriously when I say everyone must see this. It's beautiful, and I only wish the best for Keith. It will help you work out your own tomatoes and banjos in life, and leave you with hope for the world.

Life affirming show from a very personable performer. Banjo player who has raised £345000 for charity! Well done.