Toronto Fringe Review: Bubble Babz: Songs from the Tub

Barbara Johston. Photo by Jen Squires

Bubble Babz: Songs from the Tub takes singing in the shower to a whole new level. From EDGE of THE SKY comes 60 minutes of wonderful songs and stories from Barbara Johnston. She tells us about breakups, embarrassing middle school memories, existential dread, and more, all from the comfort of her very own inflatable bathtub.

From the moment the audience walks in, the playful set promises a fun show. The bubble wrap around the mic stands and a flamingo patterned shower curtain set the tone for a good time.

Johnston blows us away with her powerful singing. Both of her backup singers, Masini McDermott and Carter Hayden, each get their own moments to shine, which is great because they both have amazing voices as well. My personal favourite though is Mateo Chavez Lewis, not only for his singing and accompaniment on the piano, but for his adorable duck onesie. 

McDermott and Hayden also step in to play various characters in Johnston’s stories. Most prominently, Hayden takes on the role of her friend that she’s staying with after a breakup. Hayden’s character is trying to make it as an actor but keeps just barely not getting cast. He blames this on Ryan Gosling, whom he then sings a passionate song about.

Though the show has its fair amount of silliness, it is also surprisingly touching. Johnston sings about heartbreak, her relationship with her mother, and the difficulties of settling down. She also feels the pressure to have kids, or at least know for certain whether or not she wants to have kids.

Bubbly and sweet, Bubble Babz: Song from the Tub will have you dancing in your seat. It will also make you want to go home and have a nice, long bath.

Bubble Babz: Songs from the Tub is on now until July 17 as part of the 2022 Toronto Fringe Festival.
Find show times and tickets here.