(To learn more about this show, please visit the show’s page here)

Performance 6/11/26 – Portland Stage Storefront (aka TFK)

Trot on over, you won’t regret it. I think I’m going to be in the middle of my days this week and suddenly turn on my horsepower, inspired by this who-gives-a-shit performance that will have you galloping in the aisles. I’m still grinning as I write this. This totally charming performer shares infectious joy with the audience, winning over even this curmudgeon. A balm for our times, go share it.

Submitted on 6/11/26 by Linda Shary, PF26 Independent Review Team

Performance 6/14/26 – Portland Stage Storefront (aka TFK)

YEEHAW. A play about horses and horse lovers? That references Lord of the Rings? Was this play created just for ME!? Maybe. (Flattered!) But honestly: EVERYONE belongs in the Hot to Trotters Saddle Club.

I don’t need to explain what it feels like just trying to live in 2026 without weeping every day. So for Genevieve to welcome all of us into her empowered, horse-fueled world was inspiring, healing, and sure, silly. In her words: “we are all a horse girl about something.” Instead of letting neigh-sayers crush our whimsy, she rallies us into embracing and celebrating these aspects about ourselves and each other whole-heartedly. With ample horse puns, role play, education, and dance, this show earns a Blue Ribbon, hooves down.

Being part of a herd of adults (mostly strangers!) saying “yes, and” to playing ponies together is the definition of extraordinary. We cheered for each other through hobby horse exercises and showcase. We galloped together. This is all testament to an actor earning audience trust quickly and facilitating an interactive experience, but it’s also a testament to perhaps how many of us didn’t realize how much we needed to re-embrace our inner Horse Girl* (*or: insert your passion here). As silly as it sounds, it is also profoundly moving. Genevieve as our Club President, doubling into masked dancer Starshine, is vulnerable, honest, and grounded. She empowers us while finding her own voice.

Horse Girls Gone Wild is a beautiful example of how joy and whimsy are strong acts of radicalism. Saddle up and prepare to ride!

Submitted on 6/17/26 by Allison McCall, PF26 Independent Review Team