Orlando Fringe In Their Footsteps
In Their Footsteps at Orlando Fringe Credit: courtesy image

With only wooden boxes and a few props, five women (Amanda Corbett, Ayo Akinsanya, Becca Jimenez, Eunji Lim and Kelly Teaford) illustrate the harsh reality of war in this award-winning documentary drama. Directed and devised by Ash Singer and Infinite Variety Productions from actual interviews, In Their Footsteps tells stories of the Vietnam War not through the lens of the soldiers, but rather the women who stepped up and served. They may not have been on the front lines, but whether they were nurses, librarians or members of the Women’s Army Corps, their service is just as invaluable. 

At first, the show’s tone seems fairly light, as the ladies are initially somewhat optimistic. They look forward to helping the troops, especially since the men were drafted and did not have a choice. The stories they tell and excitement they show are more reminiscent of a summer camp than a war (or rather, a “police action,” since the U.S. never formally declared war). 

Before much longer, the story takes a turn as the women stay longer and longer in Vietnam. The tone becomes much darker as they talk about the harassment they experience from other soldiers and the times they have to hide and protect themselves from enemy fire. Real, raw and sometimes uncomfortable, these sequences serve as a strong reminder of what war truly is.

With its 75-minute runtime, In Their Footsteps feels just a little long for a Fringe show. There are also times when dialogue is repeated over a speaker in an echoey voice; instead of providing emphasis, the effect took me out of the show. Nevertheless, these women come together to tell a poignant, meaningful story that will stay with you.

Infinite Variety Productions (Bronx, NY)
Green Venue, Orlando Family Stage
75 minutes; 13 and up
Tickets: $12

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This article appears in Orlando Fringe 2026.