Fringe Review: Forging Legends – Mischief, Music, and Modern Tall Tales

by Shawn Maus for the League of Cincinnati Theatres at the Cincinnati Fringe Festival 2025

If you're looking to spark a child's imagination—or your own—Forging Legends: The Tall Tales Chronicles is the Fringe ticket to grab. Brought to life by sKribble sKratch Productions of Cincinnati and NYC, this joyful, musical romp is a perfect blend of Saturday morning cartoon nostalgia and meaningful storytelling rooted in African-American folklore.

Forging Legends: The Tall Tales Chronicles is the Fringe ticket to grab for fun, family-fare.

We follow two mischievous besties, played with giddy energy by April Pursley and Malik Smith, who are stuck inside when all they want is recess. But what starts as a punishment becomes a portal to adventure as their “IMAGINATION” (yes, in all caps) brings storybooks to life. Along the way, they invent heroes—the climate-crusading Aspen Twins—who tackle big challenges like environmental destruction, all while inviting kids (and yes, a few grown-ups too) to help along the way.

Pursley is a revelation. A children’s nurse by day and vocal powerhouse by stage, her comic timing and vocal range make each character pop—especially the strong and sassy Flatboat Annie. Malik Smith nails the class clown energy while giving John Henry real heart and heft. Kendra Jeffries is the glue, flipping effortlessly from stern schoolmarm to animated villainess, channeling cartoon classics from Hanna-Barbera to Pixar.

Writer DeAndre Smith and director Lauren Carr clearly understand how to speak to a young audience without talking down to them. The songs feel ripped from the best of Schoolhouse Rock, and the show’s pacing keeps even the squirmiest audience members engaged.

It’s more than just fun—it’s smart, inclusive, and rooted in culture and creativity. I especially loved discovering new folklore heroes like Flatboat Annie and the Aspen Twins, who deserve a series of their own.

Catch Forging Legends June 1 and 7 at 2:15 p.m. at the Know Theatre. Kids under 12 are free with an adult ticket, making this a perfect intro to live theater—and the magic of the Fringe.

More info at cincyfringe.com.