Highly awarded and internationally toured! Sold out runs across Canada and Off-Broadway in New York City!★★★★“

A sold out Fringe classic!”-British Theatre Guide★★★★“

An uplifting experience worthy of a TedTalk, or at least a standing ovation in front of the telly.”~Broadway Baby (Edinburgh)

When life took an unexpected turn, Keith Alessi finds that the healing power of music becomes the key to saving his life. This authentic true story is one sure to leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to dust off your own long forgotten dreams.

Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me But Banjos Saved My Life isn’t just a show, it’s a cause. A heartfelt passion project that began as a nudge after Keith Alessi’s life took a major turn, it has been his mission to raise money for causes close to his heart.

Through donations, including 100% of all artist fees, the show has raised over $615,000 (USD) as of September 2023 for various cancer, community, music and theatre charities.

Keith shares his exceptional true story of leaving the world of corporate boardrooms behind to follow his long-delayed passion—playing the banjo! When faced with a deadly cancer battle, his musical pursuit takes him on a journey that becomes the key to saving his life.

Told through authentic storytelling, heartfelt humour and music,  this show is an uplifting story of challenge, triumph, and the power of positivity. The show has been highly awarded and has toured internationally, including sold out runs across Canada, Off-Broadway in New York City, and at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland.

This intimate experience is one sure to leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and ready to dust off your own long forgotten dreams.