The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln at Orlando Fringe

News Summary

The Orlando Fringe Festival features Tom Leahy’s one-man show, ‘The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln.’ This historical portrayal dives into Lincoln’s life themes, though some critiques note performance constraints. With an R-rated ending reflecting on Lincoln’s assassination, the show provides contemporary reflections on civic values.

Orlando – The Orlando Fringe Festival 2025 is showcasing a captivating one-man show titled “The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln,” performed by historical interpreter Tom Leahy. The performance draws on the life and legacy of the 16th President of the United States, emphasizing his commitment to Democratic Republicanism, reconciliation, and justice. The show aims to present an engaging portrayal of Lincoln through his own words, allowing the audience to reflect on the complexities of his life and presidency.

Leahy visually embodies Abraham Lincoln, donning a carefully clipped beard and a recognizable stovepipe hat, although some reviewers have noted that he does not capture Lincoln’s Illinois accent or significant height. The hour-long presentation dives into several major themes, including Lincoln’s challenging upbringing, his early electoral failures, and the profound impact of the Civil War. The performance also does not shy away from Lincoln’s personal experiences, sharing anecdotes that shed light on his emotional life, such as his courtship of Mary Todd and the sorrow he endured following the death of their son.

While the content of the show is rich and historical, reviewer Seth Kubersky observed that Leahy’s performance may lack the energy often needed to shine at the Fringe Festival. His delivery has been described as relatively subdued, which could hinder the ability to connect deeply with the audience during live performances. Eye contact and emotional engagement appeared to be areas where improvement is needed. Enhancing these aspects could strengthen Leahy’s ability to leave a lasting impact, moving beyond the mechanical presentation of corporate audio-animatronics often seen in theme parks.

A noteworthy aspect of the performance is its R-rated ending, which centers around the assassination of Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth. This dramatic conclusion appears to be an attempt to heighten audience engagement and provide a stark reminder of the tragic events surrounding Lincoln’s life. However, the effectiveness of this choice remains contingent on the overall execution and connection established by the performer throughout the show.

The Orlando Fringe Festival is known for promoting a variety of performances, showcasing everything from avant-garde theatrical pieces to family-friendly shows. Residents and visitors often flock to the event for its eclectic mix of talent and entertainment. As the Hall of Presidents attraction at the Magic Kingdom is currently closed, this one-man show offers an alternative avenue for those interested in exploring Lincoln’s storied past in an engaging manner.

Tom Leahy’s portrayal of Abraham Lincoln provides an important opportunity for audiences to gain insights into the leader’s character and the historical context of his presidency. In a time when the significance of civics and accountability is at the forefront of societal dialogues, Leahy aims to re-invigorate interest in Lincoln’s values and principles.

As the Orlando Fringe continues to celebrate live performance artistry through the lens of history, “The Wit and Wisdom of Abraham Lincoln” stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Lincoln’s message. Audiences are encouraged to reflect on both the triumphs and tribulations discussed in the show as they relate to contemporary society.

Overall, while the show attempts to deliver an important historical narrative, Leahy’s ability to resonate with his audience will be critical to its success, particularly within the vibrant landscape of the Orlando Fringe Festival.

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Additional Resources

• Orlando Weekly
• Orlando Sentinel
• Bandsintown
• AntiMusic
• Brooklyn Vegan
• Wikipedia: Abraham Lincoln
• Google Search: Abraham Lincoln assassination
• Google Scholar: Abraham Lincoln
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Abraham Lincoln
• Google News: Orlando Fringe Festival