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

Banjo-playing performer strikes a chord with Calgary audiences
Banjo-playing performer strikes a chord with Calgary audiences
January 20, 2020

For two weeks, Keith Alessi didn’t know if he was going to live or die. “It was a heck of a wake-up call,” said Alessi of the time he spent in hospital fighting cancer. “You really do reflect upon what have I done with my life?”

Keith Alessi - CBC Calgary Eyeopener Interview
Keith Alessi - CBC Calgary Eyeopener Interview
January 9, 2020

Keith Alessi - Edinburgh Interview
Keith Alessi - Edinburgh Interview
January 1, 2021

The Fringe in Review Podcast - We continue our coverage of theSpaceUK which which brings a second season of shows from all genres via its digital platform. Written and spoken word, theatre and music, there is plenty to appreciate and enjoy during lockdown.

Audience Feedback

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!

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!