Tomatoes
tried to Kill me
But Banjos Saved My Life

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

Accolades

Awards

Pick of the Fringe
Mervyn Stutter's Pick
Edinburgh

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

I went to see this because I like banjo music, but it was infintely more than that. The personal story of how a love of music can raise you from the worst that life can do. Highly recommended!

That was, without doubt, the finest fringe-style show I have ever seen. It was sensational in every important way. The subject was compelling. The script was carefully crafted: there was not one surplus word, and there were a number of clever connections to earlier moments. The use of tomatoes and banjos for life’s challenges and victories is nothing short of brilliant. It was poignant, moving, funny and uplifting. And your storytelling superb. It was so impressive."

Nice Loved this show! Riveting and profound. Live life to the fullest."