Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life is a one-person show written and performed by Keith Alessi, directed and produced by Erika Conway. This inspirational true story chronicles Keith's journey from the corporate world to his pursuit of the banjo, triggered by a deadly cancer diagnosis, and serves as testimony to the healing power of music. Since 2018, Keith has internationally toured this highly awarded show about overcoming obstacles, pursuing passions, and the healing power of the arts, delivered with warmth, humour, and live banjo music. The Edinburgh run will see 100% of ticket sales donated to Summerhall Arts.
Cast and Creative Team for Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life at Tech Cube Zero, Summerhall
Cast
Keith Alessi
Ensemble
Erika Conway
Ensemble
Creative Team
Erika Conway
Director
Erika Conway
Producer
News About Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me but Banjos Saved My Life at Tech Cube Zero, Summerhall
TOMATOES TRIED TO KILL ME BUT BANJOS SAVED MY LIFE to Return to Edinburgh Fringe
June 25, 2026 Keith Alessi's one-man show about surviving cancer and finding solace in banjo music returns to Edinburgh Fringe for a fourth year, with 100% of ticket sales benefiting Summerhall Arts.About the Theatre
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