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

Performance 6/11/26 – Portland Stage Studio

If you are overwhelmed by the prospect of choosing a Portfringe show, consider the approach that my family and I have taken for years. It consists of four simple steps:

1. Check if there is a show with Mark Magee.
2. Go see that show.
3. Check for other shows of interest.
4. See the other shows.

It’s that simple. Mark Magee is an accomplished Portfringe veteran whose sharp writing and comic delivery never disappoint. Sixty, his autobiographical show in 2025, was a masterclass in tragic comedy – one of the best Fringe shows ever IMHO. This year, he revives Sheila Phillips, a recurring character he created in years past for his comedy radio show which aired on WMPG. Sheila, like Mark’s other characters, leans heavily into slapstick self delusion, but his performance portrays her with a poignant dignity befitting of misfits everywhere. He’s done it again.

Submitted on 6/11/26 by Mark Shaughnessy, PF26 Independent Review Team

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The writing was the clear strength of Sheila Phillips: All By Myself. The bizarrely touching story of a quirky, headstrong matron of a small town committee bulldozing her way past all social, interpersonal, and physical obstacles on her way to perform solo at the most important event of the year was utterly riveting. There were several times I thought the show could end perfectly well, but Sheila kept coming back with more comedic gems that both supported and complicated the show’s themes, propelling us into the next chapter of her darkly comedic saga. The story felt large and engaging while simultaneously small and intimate, and it was not lost on the audience just how well Sheila’s story matched both versions of the Celine Dion song she chose to perform.

Several times throughout, Mark McGee hit the sweet spot, performing with the same sincerity and quirkiness the script exuded. At other times, I was left wishing Mark had more time to prepare so they could stroll confidently through their whole performance. The moments when Mark hit Sheila’s confident proclamations with full commitment sent the audience into gaffaws and prolonged laughter, filling the space with energy that was, at times, hard to sustain.

Mark’s performance could have been better supported with improved technical elements. The worst offender was the sound, which was quiet and distant, leaving the space lifeless and forcing Mark to lift the weight of the room’s awkward energy. A space full of sound would lift the energy and provide a cozy setting for Mark to engage the audience. Focused pools of light would also help the show by drawing the audience’s attention and revealing things like the dress when it’s time.

The target audience skews 30s-70s, but there are enough universal elements and character-driven comedy that folks as young as 18 are bound to enjoy the show. I know my 10-year-old would have cackled several times and would have felt deeply for Sheila on her downfall.

Submitted on 6/12/26 by Nathan Gregory, PF26 Independent Review Team

Performance 6/13/26 – Portland Stage Studio

Sheila Phillips: All By Myself is an imaginative and often amusing one-person show written by and starring Mark Magee. Framed by Celine Dion’s powerful rendition of “All By Myself,” the musical theme serves as both a running joke and an emotional underscore to Sheila’s journey of self-discovery. What begins as a panic-inducing talent show crisis gradually evolves into something more meaningful as Sheila comes to realize that being by herself may not be the tragedy she once feared, but rather the freedom she desperately needed.

Magee has created a character with genuine charm, and there are several laugh-out-loud moments throughout the evening. The premise itself is clever and filled with potential. However, the production would have benefited greatly from a strong director and a script doctor to tighten the dialogue, sharpen the pacing, and create a clearer through-line for Sheila’s emotional journey. At times, the show feels as though it is searching for its focus, despite having all the ingredients of a compelling story.

Still, beneath the rough edges is a heartfelt and relatable tale about finding one’s own voice and embracing independence. With another set of experienced eyes and ears helping to shape the material, Sheila Phillips: All By Myself could evolve from an entertaining evening into a truly memorable one.

Submitted on 6/14/26 by Michael J. Tobin, PF26 Independent Review Team