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
OFF-BROADWAY
SOLD OUT RUN
2025, 2024, 2023
EDINBURGH
WINNER
MOST INSPIRATIONAL
NEW YORK CITY

Reviews & Press

5 STARS-THE RECS (EDINBURGH)
5 STARS-THE RECS (EDINBURGH)
September 6, 2025

"This is an hour of pure joy."

THEATRE WEEKLY (EDINBURGH)
THEATRE WEEKLY (EDINBURGH)
August 5, 2025

"It’s poignant, hopeful and utterly compelling, avoiding sentimentality and mawkishness — and I defy you not to have a tear in your eye at key points."

5 STARS-North West End UK
5 STARS-North West End UK
August 4, 2025

"Anyone who loves an underdog story, step this way and be ready to laugh and weep in equal measure."

Audience Feedback

GO SEE THIS!!! Beautiful story told masterfully in a way that has you hooked. Honesty. Clarify. Reality. And a touch of banjo music. Keith tells his personal true story and causes lightbulb moments to go off for everyone in the audience. Amazing. Great show.”

It's one of those outstanding shows you feel privileged to have experienced. We booked because of the link with banjos - and were curious - we got so much more. A show that will remain with us for ever as one of the great life affirming stories.

It's easy to see why past reviews have been so favorable. Great life story, and so well told. Kudos to Keith!