No Place Like Home Reviewed by Debbie McClure Justin Shaw was like so many small-town young men who just wanted to escape home and explore the big, wide world. Having grown up on a horse farm in Prince Edward Island, getting off-island and becoming an actor had been Justin’s greatest dream. After gaining his father’s approval, he sets off to make his mark on the big stage. Unfortunately, life and fate have other plans, and as Justin discovers, the life of an actor is never easy, but discovery and fame are always just around the next corner. From Fort McMurray to Hamilton, Ontario, Justin’s journey unfolds with wit, East Coast wisdom, and life lessons most of us have to learn along the way. Now on stage at the Blyth Festival, the world premiere of Off-Island Odyssey is a one-man that takes the audience along on a journey of discovery with the solo performer, Justin Shaw. Justin’s narrative, timing, facial expressions, and body language are impeccable as he has the audience chuckling and at times, roaring with laughter. A light-hearted romp through the years he endured as a struggling Canadian actor delights and entertains. What Justin discovers is that he can leave the island, but the island never leaves him. Home really is where the heart is, and gaining his father’s approval was always at the core of what drove Justin to seek the bright lights and fame. It’s a lesson many of us have already learned; there’s no place like home, and family really do matter most. Written and performed by Justin Shaw, Off-Island Odyssey is a must-see if you enjoy stand-up comedy-style performances ripe with one-liners and quick wit. This is a great storyline that unfolds through a series of snapshots of life through the eyes of a young ...