Click below to find the press and media resources you'll need to cover Keith Alessi's one man show, Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me, But Banjos Saved My Life. If there's anything more that you need, please don't hesitate to contact us!
Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life is a heartfelt passion project that began in 2018 as a nudge after Keith Alessi’s life took a major turn. He shares his exceptional true story of leaving the corporate world behind to follow his true passion—playing the banjo!
When faced with a cancer battle, his lifelong dream becomes the key to saving his life. Told through authentic storytelling, heartfelt humour and music, this highly awarded, internationally toured show is an uplifting story of challenge, triumph, and the power of positivity.
This intimate experience is one sure to leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to dust off your own long forgotten dreams.
It has been Keith’s mission to raise money for causes close to his heart including various cancer charities. He has performed the show over 250 times and has donated 100% of his artist fees and as of December 2022 has raised over $600,000.
Keith Alessi - Writer and performer, Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life
Before taking to the stage, Keith was well known as a successful public company CEO, entrepreneur and college professor. He has led companies in both Canada and the United States.
He has performed in Fringe Festivals and other professional venues across Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom since 2018.
A dual CA/US citizen, Keith splits his time between Vancouver, British Columbia and Meadows of Dan, Virginia. He is a certified public accountant and received his MBA from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
Erika Conway
Producer/ Director/ Dramaturg: Tomatoes Tried To Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life
Erika Conway, a Canadian actress, writer, director and producer is no stranger to the stage. Her 30-year performance career has included acting in multiple roles both on stage and in film/ TV, as well as creating and producing her own one woman show which had sold our performances at the Edmonton Fringe Festival.
The desire to connect with authentic and meaningful stories ultimately lead her to expand her work on ‘Tomatoes Tried To Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life.’ and has been the inspiration to continue her passion of creativity in building a coaching business that helps people unlock their passions and discover their authentic voice.
To learn more visit Erika’s website HERE
Broadway Baby Edinburgh:"This unique story, told through humour and music, is an engaging and uplifting experience worthy of a TedTalk, or at least a standing ovation in front of the telly."
British Theatre Guide:"....a heart-warming show which is much needed at present."
The Munro Review-Fresno California“I’ve seen many, many one-person autobiographical shows over 20 years of Rogues, and this is one of the best: funny, inspiring, touching, and infused with gentle warmth.”
King’s River Life-Fresno California“Keith’s stage presence is warm and engaging and his storytelling is captivating.”
Times Square Chronicles -New York City“…a deep-felt show by writer/actor Keith Alessi.”
CBC Calgary:"The banjos represent a life he wasn't born into, but a life he chose for himself"
Winnipeg Free Press: "Alessi’s inspirational and compelling tale will pluck at your heartstrings, clawhammer style."
Saskatoon StarPhoenix“…an inspiring story told with near-flawless delivery.”
Calgary Herald:"There is a twinkle in Alessi’s eyes that is both charming and disarming"
Vancouver Theatre Addicts, Vancouver, Canada
“You absolutely should see this performance. It was raw and authentic and beautiful.”
Click here for more reviews & press about the show and here for more audience feedback!
Keith Alessi- Tomatoes Tried To Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life-Photo Cred: Lauren Hamm
Erika Conway (Director/ Producer) Tomatoes Tried To Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life-Photo Cred: Erika Conway
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Erika Conway
econway.tomatoestriedtokillme@gmail.com
780-934-3885