Chance Encounters documents a one-person show of the same name by Juno award-winning musician and interdisciplinary artist Jesse Stewart. Combining storytelling and innovative music performed on a variety of unusual instruments, the film explores the profound impact that fleeting interactions with strangers can have on us.

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Review by Victoria Angelique:

The production of CHANCE ENCOUNTERS utilizes a brilliant storytelling technique that makes the audience forget this is a one man show. Jesse Stewart teaches important lessons through the people he has encountered that helped shape his life. He proves that people don’t need to spend a lot of money to make music, sometimes it’s the individuals met throughout life’s journey that will lead a person to create music and art in the most unexpected of ways. 

The soundscape that Jesse Stewart creates is ethereal. The items he uses creates a musical adventure that is a combination of nature with a touch of Heaven, even in the darker tones. The idea that earthly or manmade items can make such magnificent sounds is a treat for the ears. This film should be watched at full volume for the best experience. The fact that everyday items such as stones or keys can make music is outstanding, then adding in traditional musical instruments from different cultures makes this show an immersive experience. Stewart is able to flawlessly move throughout time as he tells his story, using music to bring his audience into different cultures. 

The theme of CHANCE ENCOUNTERS is quite powerful because it shows how certain people can change someone for the better. The wisdom of strangers can stick for life, as it clearly did with Jesse. The show has a subtle suggestion that perhaps the encounters a person has really isn’t by chance, but by fate. Throughout the storytelling, each of the people Stewart met seemed to come at a moment when he needed advice. 

Jesse Stewart is a captivating storyteller. If the film is able to fully immerse someone into his stories, he is probably even more remarkable live. If people don’t enjoy one man shows, CHANCE ENCOUNTERS will change that opinion. The combination of music with amazing storytelling is  something everyone should watch.