By: Sultana F. Ali
Contributing Writer
John Grady loved to watch Fear Factor, there was something exciting and transformative about it. The Fear Factor edition which featured couples added another dimension to the concept of fear; time and time again it was the calmer couples that had been together many years who steered away from arrogance, games and assumptions that took the prize. Much like these couples, one of John's longest relationships where he discovered that kind of trust and interdependence was with his beloved dog, Abby. After all, she taught him almost everything he knew about love.
Less than halfway through this powerful show, the fire alarm went off in the theater and we were forced to dismiss the show. After it was clear that it was a false alarm, we came back in and John Grady continued his performance without a break in concentration - a true professional. We can all identify in some way with his story; we have all loved someone and many of us have had an animal in our immediate family. Perhaps what is most profound about this show is the delivery. A former Blue Man Group performer, off-Broadway star, trained dancer and gifted actor, John is also a masterful storyteller. "Fear Factor: Canine Edition" is real; John Grady delivers an emotionally wrought performance that reminds each of us of the precious gift of life.
Grady is a New York City resident and will continue to tour "Fear Factor: Canine Edition" after the Orlando Fringe Festival East Coast Premiere, but you have two more chances to see this incredible show this weekend including a performance today at 1:10 PM and tomorrow at 3:50 PM in the Pink Venue. Grady deserves nothing less than a packed house as he shares this heart-warming and heart-breaking story from his life.
