Fringe Review

Victoria Montalbano’s Timey Wimey Stuff is a thrilling roller coaster of laughter, vulnerability, and introspection, wrapped in a delightful Doctor Who-inspired universe. This one-woman show isn’t just a comedic exploration of a woman’s mid-life crisis—it’s an honest and raw journey through the complex maze of self-identity during a pandemic. Montalbano beautifully combines her love for science fiction with the very real struggles of being an essential worker, all while navigating the chaotic world of acting and the question of legacy.

Montalbano’s portrayal of River, her Doctor Who-inspired alter ego, is nothing short of captivating. River’s whimsical but fearless nature serves as a comforting contrast to the existential questions Montalbano grapples with in her own life. As she time-travels through her struggles, Montalbano delivers a masterclass in blending humor with raw honesty, discussing the pressures of chasing success versus the pursuit of passion. The show highlights the often disillusioning reality that credit lines and recognition don’t always equate to true success especially in a craft as personal and vulnerable as acting.

The pandemic backdrop adds another layer of depth, as Montalbano reflects on what it means to be ‘essential’ in a world where so many were feeling lost. Her connection to the Doctor Who universe, and especially River’s ability to time travel and make peace with her fate, serves as a metaphor for her own reconciliation with the chaos of life.

“Timey Wimey Stuff” is an unapologetic celebration of self-discovery, resilience, and the sometimes messy but always beautiful process of finding your way—no matter how many times you have to reset the timeline.