SQUIRM: A True Story

SQUIRM: A True Story is an autobiographical dark musical comedy that follows Mia and their tapeworm, Squirm, through their codependent romance. Hilarious, heartfelt, and disgusting, this show will take you on a ride through the literal guts of a musician trying to break free from the constraints of anything and everything they hide behind to keep themself small.

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Starring Mia Schachter + Nick Hemerling

Directed by Andis Solomon

Script, music, and lyrics by Mia Schachter

Music direction by Taylor Blake

SQUIRM: A True Story is a surreal autobiographical musical that follows Mia, a nonbinary Jewish musician, as they navigate the complexities of chronic illness, personal identity, and a literal parasitic relationship with their tapeworm, Squirm. Through humor, raw honesty, and fantastical elements, Mia’s journey explores themes of codependency, self-discovery, and healing. Squirm, a puppet brought to life with a winding, ever-present tail, becomes both a confidant and an antagonist, embodying Mia’s inner struggles and fears.

Set against a dynamic backdrop of intimate settings—bathrooms, backyards, and a mikvah—the narrative is punctuated by live music and absurdist, poignant moments. The stage becomes a visual tapestry of projections, costumes, and clever choreography, drawing the audience into Mia’s chaotic yet relatable experience. Mia’s battle with Squirm becomes a metaphorical fight for autonomy, as they confront their deepest vulnerabilities, wrestle with their faith both spiritual and creative, fight through emotional blockages, and learn what it means to reclaim their body and voice.

With sharp humor and emotional depth, Squirm: A True Story, breaks the fourth wall and shatters traditional narrative boundaries, inviting audiences into a raw, hilarious, and ultimately redemptive exploration of survival, love, and self-acceptance. Squirm asks, “Who is the puppet when choice is an illusion and the one pulling the strings can’t be seen?”

Reviews

“I was absolutely blown away by this show. I was impressed by the artistry in every aspect – the writing and music, of course, and the performances. The art direction, the scenic design (it’s hard to call them ‘sets’ – each piece was at once less and more than a set,) the use of musical instruments as their own kind of voice, the mesmerizing choreography, the knitting!”

“This is one of my favorite shows I’ve seen at Fringe! The set pieces, the live music, the well-written songs made the semi-autobiographical story come to life in such an engaging and connecting way. I loved it!”

“My cheeks hurt from smiling. I really loved the choreographed dances, the intricate props and audience play. The pacing of the show was great and the inflatable saxophones killed me. I was a big fan of the live sax and flute and sound effects as well. They provide a really nice, grounded touch that wouldn’t be the same if they were just pre-recorded sounds. Mia is a great melody writer and the harmonies between them and Squirm are top notch. I’m excited to see what Mia does next because this was a pretty hilarious achievement for their first musical!”

“Incredible!! Such a wonderful heartfelt, musical dramedy. I loved it! The performers have such great chemistry. They told a beautiful story about personal growth and had me laughing at the same time. It was terrific blend of light and dark, and they really transported me!”

“This is a beautiful and hilarious love story that should not be missed! Mia and Nicholas take the audience on a journey of self discovery through a messy and intense Cancer season. The puppetry is brilliant and the music is heartwarming and humanizing. Their onstage chemistry was palpable and the struggles Mia faces overcoming their dependence on their fav lil scapegoat are so relatable on so many levels. When it comes to the abilities of a tapeworm, you will see things you didn’t know were possible. Do yourself a favor and SEE THIS SHOW!”

“I’ve had these songs stuck in my head all week! The hooks are fantastic, and the story is so compelling. It’s a fascinating exploration of how far self sabotage can go when we’re afraid to achieve our dreams.”

“This was absolutely my favorite show I’ve seen at Fringe so far. Mia and Nick are fantastic performers and keep you hooked the entire time. This show resonated with me deeply and will be show I think about for a very long time. I left the theater feeling like I’d just witnessed something truly real.”