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

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

"This is an hour of pure joy."

Global News Edmonton
Global News Edmonton
February 18, 2025

Global News Interview Edmonton

Audience Feedback

Keith is a wonderful storyteller. I admire his ability to pinpoint and convey the "Big Bang" moments in his life to craft such a beautiful and moving narrative. His story is profoundly resonant and poignant- it had me still reflecting on my own life long after the show ended.

Keith Alessi tells his own story in a very beautiful way about his life and always looking forward through the windscreen, not in the rear view mirror. Highly recommended. We went to see it not sure what to expect but were highly rewarded.

GO SEE THIS!!! Beautiful story told masterfully in a way that has you hooked. Honesty. Clarity. 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.”