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

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....

Global News - Edmonton Fringe Reviews
Global News - Edmonton Fringe Reviews
August 23, 2019

On Friday evening, Todd James reviewed Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life (5/5)...

CTV News Calgary Interview
CTV News Calgary Interview
January 16, 2020

Lunchbox Theatre presents a must see show where the banjo has a starring role.

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.”