The biggest party is heading to Adelaide in 19 days! With over 1326 events to choose from some folks may be overwhelmed, unsure of what to do with the Fringe Festival vouchers they received over Christmas. I’ve put together a handy list of shows that I would recommend based on my 2018 reviews.
A majority of these shows are return seasons while others are recommended based on the credibility of its producer/presenter receiving an outstanding review in 2018 and staging a new work this year. These recommendations are based on my experience of these shows therefore I can’t guarantee you will enjoy them as much as I did, but I hope that this list will help you filter through the pizzazz of the Adelaide Fringe Guide.
The Expert at the Card Table (Magic) ☆☆☆☆☆
Fringe Tix
2018 review
“This was a refined and sophisticated show led by a talented presenter. Redden held his audience as skilfully as a deck of cards.”
That Daring Australian Girl (Theatre) ☆☆☆☆☆
Fringe Tix
2018 review
“Hartstone is an energetic, dynamic, and comedic actress. She paid fitting homage to the elocutionist and women’s rights advocate, Muriel Matters-Porter, by striking a commendable balance between formality, humour, and panache.”
Orpheus (Theatre/Folk) – ☆☆☆☆☆
Fringe Tix
2018 Review
“There was no spectacle, no gimmicks, no fancy lighting, just pure unfiltered theatre delivered as honest and beautiful storytelling.”
Meg in the Magic Toyshop (Children’s) – ☆☆☆☆½
Fringe Tix
2018 Review
“This is a lovely interactive Fringe production that is ideal for families with young children.”
30,000 Notes (Theatre)
Fringe Tix
2018 Review (Scarred For Life)☆☆☆☆½
Check out Issue 1 of The Serenade Files for a detailed story about 30,000 Notes by James Murphy.
Socially [Un]acceptable (Theatre) – ☆☆☆☆½
Fringe Tix
2018 Review
“The depth of her self-expression and vulnerability was captivating as she used her art to tell stories that the average person would prefer to remain hidden.” (please observe content warnings via Fringe Tix)
Hand in Hand (Circus) – ☆☆☆☆
Fringe Tix
2018 Review
“The concept of trust was the most significant aspect of this performance. I felt sincerely moved as I watched their story unfold and I even smiled with tears in my eyes, witnessing amazing flexibility and impressive core strength exhibited before me.”
Breaking the Magician’s Code (Magic/Comedy) – ☆☆☆☆
Fringe Tix
2018 Review
“Kane and Abel’s strengths were definitely in their impromptu and interaction with patrons accompanied by laudable magic tricks.”
A Thousand Cranes (Theatre)
Fringe Tix
2018 Review (Ivy + Bean The Musical) – ☆☆☆☆☆
The Gemini Collective have a great track record for producing quality theatre. I reviewed their first production last year and thoroughly enjoyed it. I was later invited to be a part of their production team and I am composing music for A Thousand Cranes. Naturally, I’m recommending it.
From A Distance, The Glory Of Bette (Music)
Fringe Tix
2018 Reflection
I had the privilege of being a part of this sold-out show in 2018. Sarah Jane Whiteley (producer/performer) is bringing it back bigger and better.
That brings us to the end of my recommendations list. Regardless of what you choose to watch, try to spare some time to leave feedback for the artists whose work you enjoyed. You can do this via Talk Fringe or social media, or even better you can tell them to their face after a show.
Artists appreciate positive feedback for the hard work that they put into their performances and, let’s be honest, if it weren’t for the artists Adelaide couldn’t boast being host to one of the best festivals in the Southern Hemisphere every February/March.
Have fun picking your Fringe shows and feel free to let me know if there is anything worth seeing. I’m always keen for recommendations too.
