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A calling, not a choice
Philly Fringe 2025: Chris Davis presents The Presented
Alix Rosenfeld
Art students of all disciplines are told, “if you can imagine yourself doing anything else, then absolutely do that thing instead.” Meaning, if you feel even slightly compelled to, say, become a lawyer or a doctor—a profession that might give you a stable living in this country—then go for it. Don’t be a professional artist. In Chris Davis’s spunky solo show, The Presented, now running throughout the Philadelphia Fringe Festival, he reminds us that being an artist is a calling, not a choice. That calling, however, does not always lead to being chosen. Or presented.
Davis first produced The Presented in the 2018 Philly Fringe. He’s updated it to reflect 2025 realities and new perspectives, but the premise remains the same: he explores the journey of striving to be a recognized and appreciated artist—one who wins the coveted position of being presented by a major theater or independent producer. In fact, he’s aiming at one particular producer—acclaimed Philadelphia artist and Fringe Festival darling, Geoff Sobelle, who has experienced no shortage of success with his original pieces like HOME and The Object Lesson.
Davis ropes the audience in as his conspirators to create a solo show to impress Geoff, but there is a loftier goal as well. Davis wants to resurrect the Golden Age of Theater, a time when grants hadn’t dried up, theaters weren’t rapidly closing or consolidating, and artists could earn decent(ish) money.
His own Fringe institution
While Geoff Sobelle is certainly a favorite local artist, Davis is himself a Fringe institution. His solo performances have been must-sees at the festival for years, and The Presented is no exception. Characteristic of his previous works, like One Man Nutcracker and One-Man Apocalypse Now, The Presented is a packed performance chock-full of absurdism, witty humor, and a dazzling display of physical and emotional endurance from Davis.
Along with his writing prowess, Davis is a charming and energetic performer. He immediately captivates the audience’s attention and holds it for the duration, bringing forth genuine laughter and comfortability and inspiring a willingness to be a part of the show-within-a-show device. Davis has collaborated closely with director MK Tuomanen for 20 years, so it’s difficult to discern where Davis’s vision ends and Tuomanen’s begins. Together, they have a unified voice.
The Presented is a raucous and enjoyable 60 minutes, but it’s not without its pitfalls. As soon as Davis enters the stage, he doesn’t stop talking or moving at a mad dash for the hour. While it’s fun to watch him complete the marathon as a sprint, the piece would have benefited from more energetic peaks and valleys. Without these pauses or breathers for reflection, the heartfelt message that Davis asserts by the end doesn’t fully stick the landing. Davis is so winning, however, that it’s almost immaterial that the play doesn’t quite hang together. This is a show to add to your Fringe schedule if you haven’t already. The Presented is a present, a gift.
What, When, Where
The Presented. Chris Davis. Directed by MK Tuomanen. PWYC starting at $0. Through September 28, 2025 at Studio 34 at 4522 Baltimore Ave, Philadelphia. Phillyfringe.org
Accessibility
Studio 34 is located on the second floor, accessible only by steep, narrow stairs.
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