CTRL ALT DELETE: An Alphabetical Musical
Quirky and silly in the best way
I went to see CTRL ALT DELETE: An Alphabetical Musical playing at Theatre Passe Muraille as part of the Toronto Fringe Festival, produced by Just an Idea Collective, written and composed by Douglas Price.
When the English language faces budget cuts, seven letters must each prove why they’re essential — or risk being eliminated. A few audience members were selected from the lineup to serve as the jury, which added a fun and interactive layer to the experience.
I don’t have much to say other than: it was great. No notes. Mostly perfect in my eyes.
The show is quirky and silly in the best way, but also grounded — like a real musical, not just a sketch. That said, it could be an excellent sketch revue too, and I mean that as a compliment. The run is basically sold out, and I totally get why. The premise is fun and fresh, and it’s brought to life by a cast that’s just as delightful.
The songs are funny and memorable — “I Work for the Alphabet” and “Say Goodbye to Pizza” were standouts. But the one that really stuck with me was “Knowing,” performed beautifully by Alexis Raphael. There was a sweetness in her performance that added depth to all the fun and silliness — it gave the show heart. A wonderful, heartfelt moment.
I also want to shout out the rest of the cast, who brought so much personality to their letters:
Ryan J. Burda as Letter F – he’s got that classic musical theatre charisma that shines through.
Taj Crozier as Letter Q – rebellious, joyful, and very funny. A spark of mischief in the best way.
Lucas Popowich as Letter S – so solid and grounded in every moment.
Tahirih Vejdani as Letter W – great presence and a strong performer.
Vanessa Campbell as Letter X – she was my favourite. She really stood out to me.
Millie Boon as Letter Z – brought a great energy to round it all out.
Honestly, I hope more people get to see this. It’s a clever, heartfelt, joyfully absurd piece that deserves a future beyond Fringe.
Featuring Taj Crozier, Lucas Popowich, Ryan J.Burda, Alexis Raphael, Millie Boon, Tahirih Vejdani, Vanessa Campbell” Back row L-R: Taj Crozier, Lucas Popowich, Tahirih Vejdani Front Row L-R: Ryan J. Burda, Alexis Raphael, Millie Boon, Vanessa Campbell Description: 7 office workers lean on a boardroom table dramatically looking at the camera.
SHOW DATE
Wednesday July 2nd, 2025 7:45pmFriday July 4th, 2025 1:30pmSaturday July 5th, 2025 4:15pmWednesday July 9th, 2025 8:00pm SOLD OUT
Thursday July 10th, 2025 5:45pm SOLD OUT
Friday July 11th, 2025 3:00pm SOLD OUT
Saturday July 12th, 2025 10:15pm