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As somewhat of an Internet enthusiast, I like to think you can find everything you need on Craigslist. Need a roommate? Check Housing. An electric grill? Check For Sale. A date for that party Friday night? Check the personals section – or if you just want something friendly, there’s “strictly platonic.” (“As if anything is strictly platonic,” one cast member jokes.)

These interactions form the backbone of Missed Connections: A Craigslist Fantasia, the latest Fringe Festival offering from West Philly’s Curio Theatre Company, running now through September 19.

From the minute the lights come up on set and we see Kaylee Goodwin (the “girl in the white dress”) plug a giant plug into a giant socket and illuminate a giant monitor displaying (what else?) Craigslist, we’re transported to a different world—where our everyday existences are affected and influenced by our interactions online.

The hour-long show covers just about every transaction known to Craigslist—from an irate 20-something lashing out against his roomie’s girlfriend (“Rants and Raves”) to the young girl hired—for $20—to bathe in a bathtub full of noodles (“Jobs” or maybe, “Creative Gigs.”)

Once a sketch is completed, the category is blurred on the monitor until we’re left with just “Help”, and Craigslist takes on a dangerously dark side.

And while finding love—or employment, or noodle baths—online can be gratifying, the production ultimately warns against passive online identity.

“Stop waiting around for something to happen,” declares one cast member, after perusing personal ads and Missed Connections. “Get out there and make it happen.”

Missed Connections: A Craigslist Fantasia
Through September 19, 2009
See the Philly Fringe site for official dates and times.

Calvary Center Sanctuary
4740 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143
( 215) 413-9006
www.livearts-fringe.org